Foot wounds are a common and serious concern for people living with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and reduce circulation, making it harder to feel injuries and slower for the body to heal. Small cuts or pressure spots may go unnoticed and develop into open sores, which can lead to soft tissue infections if not treated promptly. Risk factors include poor circulation, nerve damage, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. These wounds often appear on the bottom of the foot or around pressure points, and may worsen over time without proper care. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, check for infection, and provide advanced treatments to promote healing and prevent complications. Early care can reduce the risk of severe outcomes. If you have diabetes and have developed foot wounds, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 ABC 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 contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, especially during growth spurts. The condition develops when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated from repeated stress and pulling of the Achilles tendon. It is often seen in active children who participate in running and jumping sports, such as soccer, basketball, or gymnastics. Symptoms may include pain at the back or bottom of the heel, tenderness, limping, and discomfort that worsens during activity. The heel may appear slightly swollen, and some children walk on their toes to reduce pressure. Tight calf muscles, flat feet, or wearing poorly supportive shoes can increase strain on the heel. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, gait, and level of inflammation to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of heel pain. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, activity modification, and heel padding to reduce stress on the growth plate. If your child has ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.

Athlete's foot is a skin infection that affects the feet and is often caused by fungi that thrive in warm, and moist areas. Three common types of athlete's foot infections are interdigital, moccasin, and vesicular athlete’s foot. Interdigital athlete's foot develops between the toes and causes redness, peeling, and itching. Moccasin type affects the sole and sides of the foot, resulting in thickened, dry, and cracked skin. Vesicular type includes small fluid-filled blisters that may be painful. Causes include contact with contaminated surfaces, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and excessive sweating that creates a damp environment. The infection can spread through direct contact or shared spaces like pools or gyms. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis and provide medical treatment to clear the infection and protect the skin. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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.

An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists or rolls, causing the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that support the joint, to stretch or tear. An ankle sprain often happens while playing sports, walking or running on uneven surfaces, or sudden changes in direction. Risk factors include previous sprains, loose joints, and certain foot shapes that make the ankle less stable. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam to assess ligament damage and check for more serious injuries. Imaging and X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity and includes bracing, controlled movement, and structured rehabilitation to restore strength and balance. In more severe or repeated cases, advanced care or surgery may be needed to improve stability. If you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for immediate care.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.