Items filtered by date: October 2024

Diabetic foot care is essential for preventing serious complications like foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations. People with diabetes are at higher risk for foot problems due to poor circulation and nerve damage, which can lead to unnoticed injuries. Education on proper foot care is imperative to minimize these risks. Those with diabetes should inspect their feet daily for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection, and keep feet clean and dry. Properly fitting shoes and regular podiatrist visits are important for preventing pressure points and ulcers. Foot ulcers are open sores that can develop from small injuries, becoming serious if left untreated. They require immediate attention, as untreated ulcers can lead to severe infections and potential amputations. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you have routine visits with a podiatrist to proactively prevent serious foot problems and to educate you on how to maintain healthier feet.

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 Harris Greenberger, DPM from Fairfield County Foot Surgeons. Our podiatrist 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 Norwalk, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling, often in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood, forming sharp crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that typically dissolves in the blood and is excreted through urine, but when levels are too high, it can accumulate and cause painful flare-ups. Gout can be triggered by consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol, which increase uric acid levels. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain medications. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical exam, blood tests to measure uric acid levels, and joint fluid analysis. If you have painful gout in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on how to find relief.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Harris Greenberger, DPM from Fairfield County Foot Surgeons. Our podiatrist 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 Norwalk, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Peripheral neuropathy, a condition affecting the peripheral nerves, often causes symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the feet. It is commonly caused by diabetes, where prolonged high blood sugar levels damage nerve fibers. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications. Individuals with peripheral neuropathy may experience difficulty walking, balance issues, and a higher risk of foot injuries due to reduced sensation. To prevent peripheral neuropathy, managing underlying conditions like diabetes is important. This includes maintaining stable blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication. Regular foot inspections from a podiatrist for injuries or abnormalities are essential for those affected. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment plans.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Harris Greenberger, DPM from Fairfield County Foot Surgeons. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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