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Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores, can develop on the feet, heels, or toes when constant pressure or shear forces restrict blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues. This often happens when people are confined to bed, use wheelchairs for long periods, or cannot move certain parts of their body. Shear forces, which occur when the skin moves in one direction while the bone moves in another can stretch or tear small blood vessels. Friction and moisture further weaken the skin, making ulcers more likely to develop. Older adults, people with foot deformities, poor circulation, or diabetes and kidney disease are more prone to developing these ulcers. A podiatrist can evaluate the depth and severity of the pressure ulcer and help manage it through proper wound care, debridement to remove dead tissue, and dressing selection. If you are suffering from painful pressure ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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 Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. The big toe is one of the most common locations for a gout attack due to its lower temperature and reduced circulation compared to other areas. Early signs of gout often begin suddenly and may include intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected toe. The joint may become extremely tender, making it difficult to walk or wear shoes. These symptoms often appear during the night and can worsen quickly. Gout can be extremely painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you relief, management and prevention tips.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Hammertoe is a condition where one or more of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, causing a curled appearance that resembles a hammer. This condition often develops due to an imbalance in the tendons controlling toe movement. It may result from genetics, injury, or pressure from other foot issues such as bunions. The second toe is most commonly affected. The pain can be quite uncomfortable, especially when wearing tight shoes. In addition to pain, you may notice corns on the top of the toe and calluses on the ball of the foot due to extra pressure during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, often with an X-ray to assess its severity. Treatment may involve taping or splinting the toe to reduce strain, along with custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and redistribute pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery for relief and to restore proper foot function. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.
Symptoms
Risk Factors
Treatment
If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Selecting the right shoes for a baby is essential for their comfort and foot development. The best time to introduce shoes is when the baby begins to walk outdoors, as they need protection from rough surfaces. Soft, flexible materials such as leather or breathable mesh allow natural movement and keep the feet comfortable. A proper fit is important to prevent discomfort, so shoes should have enough room for growth without being too loose. Supportive soles with a slight grip provide stability while allowing natural foot motion. Additionally, easy-to-fasten closures help keep the shoes secure while making them simple to put on and take off. It is vital that your child wears shoes that fit correctly while walking outside. If you would like more information or have questions about specific types of babies first shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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Restaurant workers spend long hours on their feet, making them prone to a variety of foot problems. Among them are plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses, corns, and ingrown toenails. Constant standing and walking on hard surfaces place excessive pressure on the feet, leading to foot pain and fatigue. Shoes with inadequate support and cushioning can contribute to arch strain, heel pain, and the development of neuromas. Long shifts in tight or damp shoes may also increase the risk of fungal infections and toenail issues. Ankle instability and sprains are common due to quick movements and slippery floors. A podiatrist can assess foot pain, provide treatment for existing conditions, and recommend footwear that offers proper support and shock absorption. Custom orthotics may help alleviate pressure on the arches and heels, while addressing any misalignment that may contribute to discomfort. If you experience foot pain after working on your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options, including guidance on proper footwear.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
