Dr. Kenneth Rosenthal
Dr. Jonathan C. O’Quinn
Dr. Michael J. Price
Dr. Kenneth Rosenthal
Dr. Jonathan C. O’Quinn
Dr. Michael J. Price
A diabetic foot exam is vital for individuals with diabetes due to their increased risk of developing foot problems resulting from nerve and blood vessel damage because of high blood sugar levels. Diabetic neuropathy, caused by this damage, can lead to numbness or a loss of sensation in the feet, making it challenging to detect calluses, blisters, or cuts. If left untreated, these issues can progress to ulcers and infections, potentially necessitating amputation. A diabetic foot exam aims to identify these problems early to prevent severe complications. The process involves gathering information about medical history, diabetes management, medications, and any symptoms experienced. A thorough skin examination checks for dryness, cracking, calluses, blisters, ulcers, or other abnormalities and compares the temperature of the feet for symmetry. Nerve function and sensation in the feet, blood flow, and foot and ankle pulses are assessed, as well as musculoskeletal problems like bent or overlapping toes. To maintain healthy feet, individuals with diabetes should perform daily self-checks and practice proper foot hygiene. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment to see a podiatrist and include this specialist among your healthcare providers to see regularly.
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 Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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
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 Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Aging affects various aspects of our bodies, including changes to the feet. Common problems that develop with aging affect the toenails, skin, and structure of the feet. Toenails often become thicker, more brittle, and susceptible to fungal infections due to diminished circulation. To counteract these effects, prioritize wearing comfortable shoes with wide-toe boxes to prevent crowding and promote airflow. Aging also impacts skin cell regeneration, leading to thinning, dryness, and skin lesions. This can result in cracked heels, corns, and calluses. Protecting the feet from the elements and opting for supportive, comfortable footwear will contribute to healthier skin as you age. The structure of the feet undergoes significant changes as you age, affecting tendons, ligaments, and arch support. Over time, tendons and ligaments lose elasticity and strength, leading to flattened arches and lengthened feet. The fat pads that cushion your heels also diminish, increasing the risk of heel pain, tendon tears, and muscle strains. One of the main ways of staving off the effects of aging on the feet is to invest in properly fitting footwear. Seek out shoes that offer proper support and cushioning. For help with foot problems as you age, it is suggested that you make a podiatrist a regular member of your healthcare team.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
No matter what your profession is, ensuring foot protection is crucial for maintaining optimal foot health and preventing injuries. For individuals in construction or industrial fields, steel toed boots offer essential protection against heavy objects or potential trauma. Those in healthcare or hospitality should prioritize slip resistant shoes to avoid accidents on slippery surfaces. Outdoor workers, such as landscapers or postal carriers, should choose footwear with excellent traction to navigate uneven terrain and varying weather conditions. If you spend long hours on your feet in retail or service industries, opt for supportive shoes to reduce fatigue and prevent foot pain. Office workers can benefit from wearing comfortable dress shoes with adequate arch support. Regardless of your job, proper foot protection is vital. Consider investing in high quality shoes that match your profession's demands, and remember to take regular breaks to rest and stretch your feet during the workday. If you would like more information about what type of shoes can protect the feet during your work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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 Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Wearing flip-flops is a popular thing to do in the summer months. They are easy to wear and come in many different materials and colors. Ideally, they are meant to be worn to the beach and pool areas, however, many people enjoy their simplicity and choose to wear them while accomplishing daily tasks. When flip flops are frequently worn, the walking style or gait may change as the foot muscles adapt to ensure the shoe is comfortable. Blisters may form, toenail fungus and athletes’ foot may develop, and heel pain may ensue. There is generally minimal padding on the heels of flip flops, and ongoing heel pain may indicate plantar fasciitis or that a heel spur has occurred. Additionally, hammertoe may develop as the toes continuously scrunch together to keep the shoe on the foot. Cracked heels are another condition that can happen from wearing shoes that do not have a back, and it is helpful to moisturize the feet more often when these types of shoes are worn. If you have concerns about wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Walking is both easy and available to most people as a form of exercise. The main piece of equipment necessary is a pair of walking shoes. But choosing the correct type of walking shoe can be difficult, especially for anyone with foot, toe, or ankle problems. While a properly fitting walking shoe will not correct these problems, they can help to accommodate them after the appropriate treatment by a podiatrist. The number one factor in choosing a walking shoe is comfort. They should feel good on the feet as soon as you put them on and should not have to be “broken in”. Other factors to be considered are cushioning, stability, material, space in the toe box, and length. It is a good idea to shop for walking shoes at the end of the day when the feet are likely to be expanded. Bring the socks you are most apt to wear while walking, as the thickness will affect the fit. A walking shoe should have flexibility, which you can test by pressing the heel and toe of the shoe together. Low heels are better for walking shoes, as the heel of the foot will be the first to strike the ground. This is the opposite of running shoes. Allow about one finger width of space between the longest toe and the front of the shoe. For further help in finding the right walking shoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Proper Shoe Fitting
A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:
Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
