Diabetes is a serious medical condition that happens due to elevated glucose levels in the blood. The feet are often affected, and daily attention must be paid to them. This can begin with washing and drying the feet, followed by checking the soles for existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes. Secondly, the toenails must be trimmed correctly, and many people prefer to schedule regular visits to a podiatrist who can cut toenails properly. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and slippers worn inside the house can help to protect the feet while walking. Additionally, wearing sneakers while at the beach can help to shield the skin on the feet from the sand and sun. Poor circulation may be improved when the feet are frequently elevated, and a gentle exercise program is implemented. Many diabetic patients have high glucose levels as a result of the types of foods that are consumed. It is beneficial to reduce the intake of sugary foods and drinks and limit bread and pasta as much as possible. If you have diabetes, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and help you to manage this condition. 

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 Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. 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 office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress and tension on the heels may result in a heel spur forming. It is defined as a small bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel and is the body's natural defense against heel damage. The pain from a heel spur can be uncomfortable and can travel to the bottom of the foot where the plantar fascia lies. This is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, and plantar fasciitis may gradually develop if inflammation occurs. A heel spur may be misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis because it affects the heel. A proper evaluation is needed to differentiate between the two conditions, and this consists of having an X-ray taken. The heel spur is often noticeable in the X-ray and is done so the proper treatment can begin. Heel spurs can develop for various reasons, including wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, being overweight, or if the muscles in the back of the leg are tight. Mild relief may be found when comfortable shoes are worn, in addition to performing specific stretches that can ease heel pain. If you have a heel spur, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the best treatment is for you.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Sparta, NJ . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

A stress fracture of the foot develops gradually, and the most common reason is from overuse. Each foot has 26 bones, and they endure the body’s weight. People who frequently run or participate in jumping activities may be prone to developing a stress fracture. It is considered to be a hairline fracture, and occurs at a weak point in the foot structure. Additional reasons why people may get stress fractures can consist of increasing speed and distance too quickly, or possibly from running on uneven surfaces. It is important to practice stretching techniques before running, and cooling down properly is essential. An X-ray is often taken which can provide a proper diagnosis. This is helpful in determining the severity of the fracture and is followed by treatment. Many patients use crutches to keep the weight off of the affected foot, which may help to accelerate the healing process. This can take up to eight weeks. If you are active in a particular sport and feel you may have a stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Philip C. Caswell, DPM from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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