Wound healing in diabetics is often slower and more complex due to several factors. High blood sugar levels can impair circulation, limiting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for tissue repair. Diabetes also affects the immune system, reducing the body’s ability to fight infection and respond to injury. Even small wounds, especially on the feet, can become serious if not treated promptly. Complications such as ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, tissue death may occur. A podiatrist plays a vital role in monitoring foot health, managing wounds, and preventing complications. They provide regular assessments, specialized care, and education on proper foot hygiene, footwear, and lifestyle habits. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with proper wound care, in addition to managing this serious 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 one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. 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 office located in Clovis, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sesamoiditis involves inflammation of the tendons that surround two small bones located beneath the big toe joint. These sesamoid bones help bear weight and assist with movement, but repetitive stress from running, dancing, or wearing tight shoes can irritate them. People with sesamoiditis often experience a dull, aching pain under the ball of the foot that worsens with activity. The big toe may become stiff or painful to move, and, in some cases, swelling or bruising can develop. A podiatrist can evaluate pain under the toe by checking joint movement and using X-rays or MRI scans to confirm inflammation or rule out fractures. If symptoms do not improve, a podiatrist may suggest orthotic shoe inserts, or, in rare cases, surgery to remove one of the bones. Preventing long-term joint damage requires early diagnosis and care. If you have pain under the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Centers, Inc.. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Clovis, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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!
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out and often push the toe inward. This condition develops slowly over time and may be caused by inherited foot structure, arthritis, or wearing tight, narrow shoes. Bunions can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. The skin over the bunion may become red or irritated, especially after long periods of walking or standing. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box or using padding can help manage symptoms. In more advanced cases, custom orthotics or surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity. Early attention is key to preventing the bunion from worsening. If you have a painful bump on the side of your big toe or notice changes in the shape of your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Clovis, CA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
