Diabetes often leads to complications that affect the feet, including peripheral neuropathy. This condition damages peripheral nerves that are responsible for sending signals to the lower limbs and feet. Peripheral neuropathy causes symptoms like tingling, numbness, muscle cramps, and sharp or burning pain. Reduced sensation makes diabetic patients more susceptible to injuries from sharp objects or ill-fitting shoes, as they might not feel pain or pressure. Consequently, small wounds can go unnoticed, leading to infections and potentially severe complications like diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers may worsen due to poor circulation, which hinders healing and can result in infections spreading to the bone, sometimes necessitating amputation. Managing these issues involves regular foot examinations, wearing proper footwear, and maintaining good blood sugar levels. A podiatrist can provide specialized care to manage symptoms, prevent further complications, and promote foot health. If you have complications of diabetes that are affecting your feet, it is suggested that you add a podiatrist to your medical team.

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 podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. 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 office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition typically causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Plantar fasciitis occurs due to excessive strain on the plantar fascia, which can result from overuse, high-impact activities, improper footwear, or anatomical issues like flat feet or high arches. Prolonged standing or weight gain can also contribute to its development. Treatment options for plantar fasciitis include rest, stretching exercises, and mild pain relievers. Custom orthotics can provide additional arch support and alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer an expert diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and guidance on preventive measures.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. 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 contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammer toes are a common foot deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. Symptoms include pain, corns, and calluses due to friction against shoes. Preventing hammer toes involves wearing shoes with roomy toe boxes, avoiding high heels, and regularly stretching toes and feet. Treatment options vary based on severity, ranging from padding and orthotic inserts to alleviate discomfort to exercises and splinting to straighten the toe. In advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the toe's position. A podiatrist can provide a comprehensive assessment, recommend appropriate treatments, and offer personalized advice to manage symptoms and prevent progression. Early intervention can improve comfort and prevent the need for more invasive treatments down the road. If you notice persistent toe pain, stiffness, or changes in toe shape, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing shoes that are too big or too small can lead to various foot problems. Tight shoes can cause blisters, bunions, and calluses due to constant friction and pressure. On the other hand, shoes that are too loose can result in foot instability, increasing the risk of sprains and strains. To find the right shoe size, measure your feet at the end of the day when they are most swollen. Ensure there is enough room in the toe box for your toes to move freely, and the shoe should fit snugly around the heel without slipping. Trying on shoes with the type of socks you plan to wear with them can also help achieve a proper fit. If you have developed foot conditions from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can treat various foot ailments and provide education for proper foot measurement. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.