Items filtered by date: September 2017

Foot ulcers are one of the greatest threats a diabetic can experience. While small cuts on the foot are generally not a problem for most people, for diabetics they can be very serious. Many diabetics experience neuropathy, or nerve damage, and cannot feel when they have a wound on their leg. Diabetes can also lead to poor blood circulation, which can make it harder for wounds to heal properly. Untreated ulcers have the potential to become infected. In extremely severe cases of infection, amputation may be necessary. If you are diabetic and have a foot wound, it is recommended to see a podiatrist immediately. A podiatrist will examine the wound and properly clean it. If the ulcer is infected but the infection is not serious, antibiotics will most likely be prescribed. Finally, the podiatrist can provide orthotics or other devices to keep weight off the wound. The doctor will also want to have another checkup to make sure that the wound begins to heal. However, if the infection is severe, then amputation or limb salvage may be necessary. Ultimately, the best way to prevent amputation is through daily foot inspections of any abnormalities and monitoring your diabetes closely.

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 Apple Podiatry Group. 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 offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis and heel pain can both be very painful and uncomfortable. While stretching won’t eliminate the pain, it can help mitigate it. Some stretches that you can perform include the quadruped stretch, isolated calf raise, and even a foot massage. Before you do these, ask your podiatrist whether stretching is right for you. To do a quadruped stretch, get on all fours and spread your toes on the floor. Next, lean back slowly and sit on your heels while holding this position for 30 seconds. For isolated calf raises, lunge with your left leg forward and right leg back. Then, with your right foot flat, lift up onto the ball of your right foot. Do this for 10-15 reps on each side and for three repetitions. To massage your foot, push down on the center of the bottom of the foot and use a circular motion while applying pressure. These stretches will not eliminate plantar fasciitis and are only meant to temporarily reduce pain. If you have heel pain, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment strategies.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures, or painful hairline fractures of the bone caused by fatigue, can happen to anyone. While small, they can be serious if not taken care of. Treatment generally involves rest, but prevention is always preferential. To prevent stress fractures, start with upping your calcium and vitamin D intake. Both calcium and vitamin D help promote healthy bones, which can prevent fractures. A good pair of sneakers can help prevent stress fractures in addition to a number of other foot injuries. At least one study shows that improper running stride can increase the likelihood of injury. Those who are very skinny are more likely to suffer from fractures, so maintaining a healthy body weight and diet is essential. Last but not least, when exercising be sure to gradually increase intensity over time; do not do this immediately. Fatigue from overuse is a common cause for stress fractures, so knowing your limit is an important part of preventing injury. If you think you have suffered a stress fracture in the foot, see a podiatrist immediately for a proper diagnosis.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors 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 offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When it comes to choosing children’s footwear, children often favor style over comfort. This can cause a number of foot issues; children’s feet are still developing, and poorly fitted footwear can stymie growth. It is recommended to wear fitted shoes that not only offer some flexibility, but provide support and cushioning as well. The toes should have enough space to move around, and the foot shouldn’t be cramped. Too much space, however, is also bad and can lead to injury. Parents should keep an eye on their children’s feet; if they complain about foot pain, it may be wise to take them to a podiatrist. Fashion and style have their place in choosing footwear, but it shouldn’t be at the cost of healthy feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Apple Podiatry Group. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Arlington Fort Worth, And Flower Mound, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.