Items filtered by date: May 2023

Many people with diabetes incur injuries to their feet, but because of nerve damage that causes numbness, these wounds may not be detected. Additionally, peripheral artery damage also caused by high blood sugar levels can make it more difficult for such wounds to heal in a timely fashion. This set of circumstances often results in what is known as a diabetic foot ulcer, which may take weeks or even months to heal. In that case, a podiatrist may perform a technique called debridement to scrape away any dead skin or tissue that has formed. First, the area around the wound is disinfected. Then the sore will be examined to determine its depth and severity. After removing any dead tissue, the ulcer will be washed out. Its color is important to note. If the area is red or pink it is more likely to heal. If it is bluish or purple, it is less likely to heal. After debridement is complete, the podiatrist will suggest treatment options to prevent further ulcers from developing. For more information about foot ulcers, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Total Podiatry. 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 offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Some people experience pain, cramping, or numbness in their toes at night. Prolonged time on the feet, dehydration, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and mineral deficiencies can trigger this type of pain. Overexertion can drain minerals from the body through sweat and cause cramps in the toes. Wearing shoes that do not fit well can restrict blood flow to the toes. People over age 50 and women who have entered menopause can lose calcium in their bones, which can cause toe cramping during the night. Other medical conditions, including arthritis, peripheral neuropathy, and gout, can result in the same symptoms. If you are experiencing persistent toe pain during the night, it is suggested that you seek counsel from a podiatrist who can evaluate what might be going on and provide appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Total Podiatry. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can cause debilitating pain. It may compromise the ability to complete daily activities and medical treatment is eventually sought. It is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is defined as a band of tissue on the sole of the foot that connects the heels to the toes. An injury can cause the plantar fascia to become irritated or torn, which may happen from running on hard or uneven surfaces. It may also occur from gradual or sudden weight gain, in addition to wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Some people have a tight Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. This may result in severe heel pain, which can be a symptom of plantar fasciitis. Patients who have developed this condition may notice the pain is worse in the morning upon arising and the affected foot may be swollen and red. If you are afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you effective treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Total Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are a senior citizen, you undoubtedly know the importance of protecting the health of your feet. Something that can jeopardize the health of the feet, however, is suffering from a fall or trip. These falls can cause foot injuries in seniors and can further exacerbate foot health problems. Seniors might make a special effort to prevent falls in the shower. A senior might do this in a number of ways. For example, the installation of grab bars can help maximize stability and balance for a senior, giving them something to hold onto while entering and exiting the shower. Also, installing a shower chair gives the senior the option to sit while showering, which can reduce the chance of falling. Lastly, it might be a good idea to ensure that toiletries used while showering are placed within easy reach. If you are a senior or are caring for one, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today to be diligent in protecting your foot health.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Total Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pickleball is a sport that has become increasingly popular. It is defined as a combination of badminton and tennis, and while it is enjoyable for many people, it may cause heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can happen from frequently playing pickleball, and it may be beneficial to purchase shoes that are designed for this sport. Shoes of this type can help to protect the feet and are referred to as court shoes. They are made of materials that allow easy movement from side to side and can cushion the foot from impact. The upper part of this type of shoe has heavier and thicker material which can help to reinforce the ankle. This can be beneficial as it moves in quick bursts from side to side. Additionally, the midsole is thinner when compared to running shoes, and can protect the foot more efficiently as the game is played. If you would like to learn more about the type of shoes that are needed to play pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the right choice.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with one of our podiatrists from Total Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in San Antonio, Uvalde, and Jourdanton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.