Methods to Maintain Proper Diabetic Foot Care

Ordinary foot problems are often more complicated for diabetic patients. Diabetes can occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels and affects the nerves in the feet. This can make it difficult to feel existing cuts, scrapes, or bruises that have developed which may cause diabetic foot ulcers to form. It is important to practice proper everyday foot care and there are simple methods to accomplish this. It is beneficial to start with washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Many patients find it helpful to use a mirror to look at the bottom of their feet for any wounds that may have developed. It is imperative to have the toenails trimmed properly and many people choose to have this done by a podiatrist. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and it may help to wear socks that can absorb moisture. It is frowned upon to walk barefoot as this can help to protect the feet from the elements. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition in addition to treating any other foot conditions that are associated with diabetes.

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 Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Elderly Foot Care Is Simple To Maintain

It is recommended that proper foot care is maintained as a daily habit. It is important to practice everyday foot care during the aging process, as this can help in mobility and range of motion. This is needed to enjoy walking, shopping, and generally being active. Wearing comfortable shoes is important to the overall health of the body, and it can be beneficial to alternate the shoes that are worn with a second pair. Additionally, it can help to refrain from walking barefoot, as this can prevent athlete’s foot and blisters. The shoes that are worn can help to improve balance, and decrease the risk of falling.  A good time  to purchase shoes is at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest, and they should feel comfortable from the moment they are tried on. Some patients wear custom made orthotics with existing medical conditions that can consist of arthritis and chronic foot ailments. Trimming the toenails correctly can possibly prevent an ingrown toenail from developing, and corns may be prevented by weaning shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like more information about the importance of maintaining elderly foot care, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

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Toe Lesions

Individuals may experience pain in the toes for a multitude of different reasons. For example, toe pain may arise from problems in the bones or calluses that formed on the outside of the toes. One condition that can cause toe pain is known as lesions. These can develop on more than one toe, and sometimes on both feet. Lesions can cause pain during the day and create an extremely uncomfortable itching sensation throughout the night. Another important sign of lesions on the toes is swelling around the affected area and discoloration, which can essentially turn the toe into a purple tint. What can make toe lesions all the more troubling and uncomfortable is that wearing anything on the feet, from socks to shoes, can be extremely painful. Chilblains, a related condition, usually develop on the feet when blood vessels become inflamed as a result of exposure to cold temperatures. Some cases of toe lesions have also been identified in individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, although any kind of definitive, causal relationship between the two conditions remains to be seen. If you think that you are suffering from toe lesions, consider reaching out to a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

How Being Overweight Affects the Feet

It is common knowledge that being overweight can lead to heart problems and other maladies. In addition, extra body weight can also be the cause of problems with your feet, ankles, knees, and hips. Research shows that the risk of a broken ankle or knee injury increases when a person's body mass index (BMI) is greater than 30-35. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the bones in the feet and ankles, which are not built to carry the amount of stress extra weight causes. Your gait, or the way you walk, may be altered. This in turn affects the legs, knees and hips, which can inhibit your ability to exercise or carry out daily activities. Perhaps the greatest risk of obesity is the onset of diabetes and/or high blood pressure, as well as the development of bunions, plantar fasciitis and other foot deformities. Paying attention to a healthy diet and exercising regularly can be the first steps in eliminating foot pain and other problems. If you are overweight and experience frequent or chronic foot pain, or if your ankles seem unstable, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer guidance and treatment options.

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 Cary Golub, DPM from New York. 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 offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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