Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores that typically form on the bottom of the feet in individuals with diabetes. These ulcers progress through several stages, each requiring careful management. In the initial stage, the skin breaks down, often due to minor injuries or pressure. As the ulcer develops, it can deepen, affecting the underlying tissue and potentially reaching the muscle or bone. At advanced stages, infection sets in, leading to serious complications like gangrene, which may necessitate loss of limb. Seeking early treatment is critical because the earlier the intervention, the better the chances of preventing progression. Early treatment can stop the ulcer from worsening, reduce the risk of infection, and promote faster healing. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to stay on top of any developing foot problems, preventing complications.
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 Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Stress fractures in the feet are hairline cracks in the bone caused by repetitive stress or overuse, often affecting the long bones of the foot. Stress fractures typically develop gradually, with early signs like localized pain that worsens with activity and improves during rest. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness when pressing on a specific area of the foot may also occur. Runners or other athletes who increase exercise intensity too quickly, wear worn-out shoes, or regularly train on hard surfaces are more likely to develop stress fractures. Women with low bone density may face added risk. A podiatrist can diagnose stress fractures using a clinical exam and imaging tests, such as MRI or bone scans, when X-rays do not reveal the injury. Depending on the severity of the fractures, treatment may involve wearing protective footwear, modified activity, or using crutches to reduce pressure on the affected area. In some cases, surgery may be needed to ensure proper healing. If you have symptoms of stress fractures in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.
Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Susan Yeager, DPM from Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use. The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.
What Are Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:
- Runners
- People affected with Osteoporosis
- Tennis or basketball players
- Gymnasts
- High impact workouts
Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Heel pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life. Simple activities like walking can become incredibly uncomfortable or painful due to heel pain.
Don’t live with heel pain and get treated.
Foot problems are common in seniors, especially those over 75, and often impact mobility, independence, and quality of life. With age, the skin becomes thinner, circulation may decline, and nails can become thick or hard to manage. Other conditions, such as bunions, can cause persistent pain and make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Many older adults also experience swollen feet, diabetic foot ulcers, gout, and foot pain linked to arthritis or obesity. Many of these conditions are worsened by years of wearing poorly fitted shoes or underlying health issues like diabetes or vascular disease. Because these problems may develop gradually, they are often overlooked until they interfere with walking or balance. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot pain, deal with painful toenails, prescribe orthotics, and perform surgery when needed to relieve discomfort and restore function. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
If you need your feet checked, contact Susan Yeager, DPM of Yeager Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.
Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Redding, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
