Foot wounds are a common and serious concern for people living with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and reduce circulation, making it harder to feel injuries and slower for the body to heal. Small cuts or pressure spots may go unnoticed and develop into open sores, which can lead to soft tissue infections if not treated promptly. Risk factors include poor circulation, nerve damage, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. These wounds often appear on the bottom of the foot or around pressure points, and may worsen over time without proper care. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, check for infection, and provide advanced treatments to promote healing and prevent complications. Early care can reduce the risk of severe outcomes. If you have diabetes and have developed foot wounds, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner 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 contact our offices located in Nampa and Fruitland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thick, and hardened, eventually splitting under pressure. This often develops from standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods, which places extra stress on the heel. Being overweight can also increase pressure and contribute to skin breakdown. Symptoms include rough skin, visible cracks, and discomfort while walking. Risk factors include poor hydration, lack of foot care, and wearing open back shoes that do not provide support. A podiatrist can remove thickened skin, recommend moisturizing treatments, and provide guidance to prevent worsening of the condition. If you have developed painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this problem.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Pain in the arch of the foot can develop from strain, injury, or structural problems that affect how the foot supports body weight. The arch is made of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue that help absorb shock while walking and standing. When these structures become irritated, pain may occur along the bottom or inside of the foot. It can range from dull aching to sharp discomfort. Some patients notice stiffness in the morning, swelling, or increased pain after long periods of activity. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overly high arches. Tendon strain or overuse from sports and exercise may also be factors. Wearing poor footwear and standing for extended periods of time may place added stress on the arch. A podiatrist can evaluate the arch and movement of the foot to identify the source of the pain. Treatment may include supportive footwear, targeted exercises, or anti-inflammatory care. Other therapies may be prescribed to relieve pressure and improve function. If you have pain in the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate  treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Troy Fowler, DPM  from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner 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 offices located in Nampa and Fruitland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diagnosing a diabetic foot ulcer begins with a careful exam of the foot. A podiatrist checks the size, depth, and signs of infection, and looks for problems with blood flow and nerve function. Simple tests include feeling pulses, testing sensation, and observing how you walk. X-rays or other imaging scans can help show deeper damage or bone infection. Treatment focuses on removing damaged tissue, controlling infection, and reducing pressure on the area. Special footwear or a protective cast may be used to off-load pressure and support healing. A podiatrist also monitors progress and may order antibiotics or further procedures as needed. Regular visits are important to track healing and prevent serious complications. Early care can improve healing time and lower the risk of infection. If you have symptoms of a diabetes-related foot ulcer, it is suggested that you  are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide treatment, and help you to manage this serious condition. 

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 Troy Fowler, DPM from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our practitioner 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 Nampa and Fruitland, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.