August 2024

Foot wound care is essential for everyone, but it is particularly important for the elderly, who are at a higher risk due to drier skin and a greater likelihood of dehydration. Regularly checking feet for any cuts, blisters, or signs of infection is important. Applying moisturizer helps keep the skin supple, reducing the risk of skin tears, a common issue in this age group. Pressure ulcers and diabetic wounds also require close attention, as these can easily become serious if left untreated. Staying hydrated is important for overall skin health, so encourage regular water intake. If a wound shows signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, or pus, it is vital to consult a podiatrist promptly to prevent complications. Early intervention and proper care can make all the difference in maintaining foot health. If you are elderly or are taking care of a senior, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist if any foot wounds need special care.

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 Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The foot is a marvel of anatomical design, essential for effective heel-to-toe walking. The heel's support comes from the calcaneus bone, which absorbs impact during the initial heel strike. The Achilles tendon, connecting the calf muscles to the heel, plays a vital role in lifting the heel and propelling the body forward. The fibula and tibia, the major bones of the lower leg, provide structural stability and support to the ankle joint. The talus, situated between the tibia and calcaneus, facilitates smooth movement of the foot. As the foot rolls forward, the metatarsals and phalanges work together to push off the ground. This intricate coordination of bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments ensures efficient movement and balance throughout each step. A podiatrist is medically qualified to treat foot and ankle conditions. If you have injured your foot or have chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer safe and effective treatment solutions.

If you have any 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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.

Diabetic foot is a term used to describe complications that affect the feet of individuals with diabetes. These complications arise from poor blood circulation and nerve damage, or neuropathy, caused by high blood sugar levels. As a result, minor injuries or sores can go unnoticed and become infected, leading to severe issues, such as ulcers or even amputation, if left untreated. Individuals at risk for diabetic foot include those with poorly controlled diabetes, a history of foot ulcers, or existing peripheral neuropathy. People with diabetes who smoke, have high blood pressure, or high cholesterol are also at increased risk due to impaired blood flow to the extremities. Treatment involves a comprehensive approach, including regular foot inspections, proper wound care, blood sugar management, and wearing appropriate footwear to prevent injury. In severe cases, medical interventions like debridement, antibiotics, or surgery may be required. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can counsel you on preventive care, provide routine check-ups, and treat any foot problems that may arise.

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

• 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 Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammer toes, claw toes, or mallet toes are all results of the toes getting bent into odd positions. They usually look odd and can be painful and often affect the smaller toes. When the toe is bent downward and the middle joint raises up, it is known as a hammertoe. Hammertoes normally happen when bunions occur, and they most often affect the second toe.  Claw toes occur when the toes curl up because the middle joints are bent down, and they often affect the four smaller toes at the same time. When the joint closest to the tip of the toe bends downward, it forms a mallet toe. Wearing shoes that are too tight is the most common cause of these conditions, but they can also be linked to diabetes or arthritis. These toe conditions are usually painful and can cause other foot problems, like calluses. If you are struggling with one of these deformities, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options and determine if surgery is necessary. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors 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

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

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 Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.