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Managing Slow Healing Wounds
Living with diabetes brings its own set of challenges, and one significant concern is the potential for slow-healing wounds. While minor injuries are a part of life, individuals with diabetes face heightened risks. Wounds that linger, fail to heal, or become infected can lead to severe health issues, with infections spreading to nearby tissues or even becoming life or limb threatening. Monitoring these wounds is imperative as slow healing is not normal. Any signs of spreading, oozing, or extreme pain should not be ignored. Daily wound care, including cleaning and bandaging, is essential for prevention. For those with foot wounds, wearing shoes and socks may help to minimize infection risks, especially during physical activities, like walking. Seeking prompt medical attention for non healing foot wounds is paramount. Antibiotics may be necessary, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be required. This proactive approach to wound care, rooted in vigilant monitoring and early intervention, helps to guard against the potential complications of untreated wounds. If you notice lower leg and foot wounds that are slow in healing, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist who is trained in treating and managing foot wounds.
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 Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. 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 Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Adult Feet Versus Children's Feet
As we explore the realm of podiatry, the disparities between adult and children's feet unfold like chapters in an evolutionary narrative. Adults, with fully developed skeletal structures, boast arches that have endured the test of time, providing stability and balance. In contrast, children's feet can be likened to blank canvases, each step imprinting a unique pattern of growth. The arches are pliable and unfixed, mirroring the malleability of childhood itself. Ligaments and tendons, gradually gaining resilience, transform these delicate feet into the robust foundation required for a lifetime of mobility. The bones, still in the process of ossification, reflect the ongoing saga of physical development. If you notice that your child exhibits foot development problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough exam and diagnosis.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes of Foot Pain From Running
Embarking on a running journey often leads to foot discomfort, ranging from blisters due to friction or wet conditions to more serious injuries caused by repetitive impact. One cause of foot pain in runners is stress fractures, often the result of overuse or sudden mileage increase. Plantar fasciitis, another common cause, is characterized by heel pain resulting from increased mileage or improper shoe choices. Achilles tendonitis, another overuse injury, requires timely diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist to prevent complications and chronic pain. Metatarsalgia, causing ball of foot pain, and Morton’s neuroma, marked by nerve enlargement between third and fourth toes, commonly cause pain in the metatarsal and toe area of the foot. Pain along the top of the foot may be linked to tightly laced shoes or other causes. Tibialis posterior tendonitis, causes throbbing or burning pain along the arch. Bunions, a deformity of the big toe, and hallux rigidus, or stiffness in the big toe, necessitate treatment from a podiatrist. It is always a good idea to address foot pain rather than to ignore it and keep running. If you are a runner experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough foot exam that will form the basis of an appropriate treatment plan.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Common Causes of Lateral Foot Pain
Lateral foot pain can be the result of various conditions, each with distinct features and treatments. Ankle sprains, often caused by rolling the ankle, result in ligament tears, possibly leading to side foot pain, swelling, and instability. Cuboid syndrome may be noticed after an ankle sprain as the cuboid bone shifts out of position. This can cause ongoing foot pain, especially after activity. Peroneal tendonitis, due to repetitive stress, leads to lateral foot pain that worsens with activity. Stress fractures, often caused by repeated stress from sports or increased activity, result in progressive pain during physical activity, localized swelling, and tenderness. Diagnosis relies on bone scans or MRIs, and surgery may be needed in severe cases. Bunions, caused by genetics, wearing tight shoes, flat feet, or arthritis, may lead to symptoms like a rotated big toe, pain, and deformity. Corns and calluses, characterized by thick, raised skin areas, often occur due to excessive friction from tight shoes, foot deformities, or aging. Posterior tibial tendonitis is associated with flat feet, and results from irritation and inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon. This causes pain on the inner side of the ankle and foot during activity. For help with any of the above conditions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Causes and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common nail infection that can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. It typically occurs when fungal organisms, like dermatophytes, infiltrate the nail bed through small cuts or separations in the nail or surrounding skin. The symptoms of toenail fungus are recognizable. Infected nails often become discolored, appearing yellow, brown, or white, and they may thicken and become brittle. As the fungus progresses, the nails can become crumbly and ragged. In some cases, they may emit a foul odor. Other potential signs of toenail fungus include pain or discomfort, especially while wearing shoes. The infection can also spread to other nails or the surrounding skin, leading to additional fungal growth and irritation. If you have noticed the beginning signs of toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can promptly begin the appropriate treatment.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
- Warped or oddly shaped nails
- Yellowish nails
- Loose/separated nail
- Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
- Brittle, broken, thickened nail
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
The Definition and Stages of Gout
Gout, a form of arthritis, is characterized by the accumulation of urate crystals in joints, leading to inflammation and intense pain. The onset of gout is marked by sudden and severe joint pain, commonly affecting the big toe. As the condition progresses, these painful episodes may recur, spreading to other joints such as ankles, knees, and wrists. Gout evolves through distinct stages. In the asymptomatic hyperuricemia stage, elevated uric acid levels exist without noticeable symptoms. The acute gouty arthritis stage follows, presenting with sudden and excruciating joint pain. Without proper management, the inter-critical gout stage ensues, marked by symptom-free intervals between painful episodes. In advanced cases, chronic tophaceous gout manifests, characterized by the formation of tophi, which are visible lumps of urate crystals that form in joints and surrounding tissues. Understanding the stages of gout is essential for effective management, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes and medical interventions to alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term joint damage. If you are afflicted with gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you with pain management strategies.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
High Heels and Foot Deformities
Wearing high heels can have long-lasting effects on your feet and overall health. While they may be a fashionable choice, prolonged use can lead to various problems. Ankle injuries and stress fractures can occur even with short-term wear, especially if you are not accustomed to wearing heels. Additionally, high heels can contribute to arthritis in the knees and foot joints due to altered posture and gait. If you already have foot issues such as hammertoes, ingrown toenails, corns, or bunions, wearing high heels can exacerbate these problems. Pump bumps, or Haglund deformities, may form on the back of the heel due to friction. High heels can also lead to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathies, and calf problems.. If you enjoy wearing high heels and you would like to learn about how to protect the health of your feet and prevent foot deformities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for professional advice.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Steven Spivak, DPM from Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Reasons to Have Foot Surgery
Foot surgery is a decision often made with the goal of alleviating persistent discomfort and enhancing overall foot health. One common reason to have foot surgery is the correction of structural abnormalities, such as bunions or hammertoes, which can cause pain and affect mobility. Surgical intervention may also be necessary to address severe cases of conditions like plantar fasciitis, where conservative treatments have proven insufficient. Removal of painful growths or deformities, such as cysts or bone spurs, is another motive for foot surgery. Injuries, such as fractures or torn ligaments, may require surgical repair to restore normal function. In some cases, joint fusion or replacement becomes a viable option for advanced arthritis. Surgical procedures tailored to specific needs can significantly improve quality of life, reduce pain, and restore mobility, allowing individuals to step into a future with greater comfort and functionality. If you have a specific foot condition and are considering surgery, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you determine if this is a correct decision for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Steven Spivak, DPM of Mount Holly Family Footcare. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lumberton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Heel Pain Can Be Treated!
Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.
