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Know the Symptoms of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetes is a disease that can affect different parts of your body, most notably your feet. According to health.usnews.com, “approximately 15 to 25 percent of patients with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point during their lifetime.” Diabetic foot ulcers, injuries to the feet, can lead to infection if not treated properly. Foot ulcers are characterized as an opening “in the skin that exposes the underlying tissue.” There exist neuropathic ulcers, which occur due to a loss of sensation in the feet, or ischemic ulcers, which occur due to a lack of blood flow in the body. It is important to see your doctor immediately for evaluation and treatment of any diabetic conditions you may have.
Diabetics must pay special attention to their feet to help prevent any complications. If you believe you are having problems with your diabetic feet,consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Avoid Running Injuries with Proper Before-and-After Routines
Dr. Eric Tan, assistant professor of Clinical Medicine from USC, recently answered some questions from runners regarding injury prevention. While many people understand the basic principle that stretching before and after a run is key in preventing injuries, Dr. Tan believes that there is more one can do. Maintaining and improving one’s flexibility with daily stretching, warming up, and cooling down before and after runs will help keep the body limber. Including days of rest, keeping hydrated, and eating a healthy diet are also very important.
Running injuries, even with proper precautions, can still occur in many runners. If you are suffering from a running injury, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber, this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
New Therapy Treatment to Help Offset Poor Blood Circulation
A new therapy treatment developed by bioengineers and physicians at the University of California, San Diego should help in the treatment of poor blood circulation that may be caused by critical limb ischemia and peripheral arterial disease. These conditions affect the limbs, cause poor blood circulation and tissue damage, and can lead to amputations if not treated immediately. The treatment involves injecting gel into skeletal muscle tissue, which can help promote muscle remodeling and blood flow.
Poor circulation in the feet can be extremely dangerous. If you are having difficulties with reduced circulation, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Poor Circulation in the Feet
Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Plaque buildup, or atherosclerosis, results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.
Causes
Lack of oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:
-muscle pain -numbness in legs
-cramps -skin discoloration
-weakness -slower nail & hair growth
-stiffness -erectile dysfunction
Those who are over 50-years-old, have diabetes and/or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and it is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce the risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.
Consult a podiatrist or doctor to help determine a regime that suits you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Green Tea May Offer Benefits for Alleviating Arthritis Symptoms
The “super food” green tea may now offer health benefits for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A recent study conducted by the Arthritis and Rheumatology medical journal found that a compound in green tea, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), helped reduce swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The study, conducted on a group of mice, found that EGCG “appeared to reduce inflammation in [rheumatoid arthritis] without interfering with other cellular functions in the mice.”
The feet are one of the most common sites for arthritis to occur in the body. If you are struggling with arthritis in your feet or ankles, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, including your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In certain forms, such as rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
- Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
- Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
- Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Flip Flops Are Not Recommended for Wearing for Long Periods
Although flip flops can be worn on many different occasions, they may not necessarily be the best type of footwear out there for your feet. Flip flops are open-toed, meaning they do not protect your feet completely, and according to WebMD, “they offer no arch support and could potentially cause a sprained ankle.” The best option is to invest in a sturdy pair of flip flops if they’re your go to shoes. Flip flops made from leather material are sturdy and offer comfort.
Wearing flip-flops for a long period of time can be harmful for the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Albert Pujols Predicted to be able to Play Once Again after Recovering from Surgery
Albert Pujols of the Los Angeles Angels has recovered from his surgery in November. He had surgery performed on his plantar plate in his foot. He is predicted to be able to play for Opening Day, but was originally expected to be able to resume playing again this month. Pujols has had surgery on his knee in 2012 but played through discomfort for the following 2013 season. Pujols is recovering but his status is not able to be fully determined.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary. If you are struggling with a foot or ankle condition, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
- Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
- 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Stress Fracture Risks Linked to Gene
According to a new study conducted by the University of Liverpool, a new gene in the body may be linked to higher risks of stress fracture injuries. The gene, P2X7R, is believed to cause decreased bone mineral density and increased bone loss in women who are post-menopausal. Stress fractures are injuries induced by fatigue, caused by repeated pressure to the bone over a long period of time. Stress fractures are common among athletes or those who do a lot of physical activity. Research findings were still very limited, but they concluded a possible link between the gene and risk of stress fracture injuries.
Stress fractures can become painful if left untreated for an extended period of time. If you would like assistance in treating a stress fracture, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Coping with Podiatric Stress Fractures
Stress Fractures occur on the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken as a result of overexertion or underuse. As a result, the ankles and feet lose support when walking or running from the ground. Since these bones are not protected, they receive the full impact of each step. The stress on the feet causes the bones to form cracks.
What are Stress Fractures?
Stress Fractures are very common among those who are highly active and involved in sports or activities that make excessive use of their legs and feet. Stress fractures are especially common among:
-athletes (gymnasts, tennis players, basketball players)
-runners/joggers
-osteoporosis patients
-those who engage in high-intensity workouts
Stress Fracture Symptoms
Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures, and can be either constant or periodic. The pain is usually sharp or dull, accompanied by swelling and tenderness. Engagement in any kind of high impact activity will exacerbate the pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Take a Break from High Heels and Treat Your Feet
High heels are a common shoe trend among women, but it’s important to wear them in moderation. High heels are extremely damaging as it puts uneven pressure on the feet, especially during extensive physical activity. Wearing high heels for too long can lead to irritation and pain in the heel, arches, and the ball of the foot. After wearing high heels, opt for massaging your feet to get circulation going and ice your feet to treat any pain or discomfort. Flats are recommended as an alternative to high heels if you need to wear formal or professional shoes.
High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. For assistance, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Changes to Your Body and Feet that Occur During Pregnancy
If you find yourself changing shoe sizes while pregnant, that is because of edema, your body retaining water during your pregnancy phase. You’ll find your whole body, especially your feet and toes, swelling during pregnancy. Hormonal changes in your body and weight gain are also other aspects of pregnancy that can put further pressure on your feet. Make sure to drink lots of fluid, keep your feet elevated, and buy comfortable clothes and shoes to accompany your changing body.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, visit Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.
How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Young Athletes should Rest to avoid Injury
Overuse injuries occur when there is repeated stress to the body without any rest in between. Growing adolescents are the most prone to overuse injuries as their skeletons are still developing. Young athletes who practice often without any breaks and who suffer overuse injuries become subject to more serious injuries. Sports medicine experts and trainers are one such solution for helping young athletes recover from and rehabilitate their injuries. Recommendations published by the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine in 2014 suggested that young athletes limit their strenuous physical activity and take rest periods often.
Regardless of season or weather, everyday foot care should be practiced year round. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will provide you with the foot- and ankle information you seek.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Why Maintaining Your Diabetic Feet is Important
Properly taking care of your feet daily is an important first step if you’re a diabetic. “Currently in the world, 1 in 11 adults has diabetes, and 1 in 2 adults with diabetes is undiagnosed.” If diabetes is not managed, nerve damage can be one consequence if blood sugar levels become too high. Foot injuries can also lead to infections if not treated immediately. Feet should be inspected daily for foot ulcers, and visit your podiatrist often to check circulation in your feet.
Diabetics must pay special attention to their feet to help prevent any complications. If you believe you are having problems with your diabetic feet, visit Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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 because 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Cryotherapy can treat Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cryotherapy is emerging as a possible therapy solution for those who have health problems. Although cryotherapy is used by doctors today to treat cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and speed up recovery time for injuries, cryotherapy is not a common practice and requires more studies behind its effects. The new treatment employs sub-freezing temperatures, which patients expose themselves to while naked. The cold is said to help improve health conditions by stimulating the functions that regulate the body. Patients who participated in cryotherapy sessions submerge their bodies for 2-3 minutes, which leads to the skin’s temperature dropping by 30 to 50 degrees.
Understanding where RA starts will help treat and prevent the condition. If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Severe pain and immobility are caused by an inflammation of the lining of your joints, and in worse cases the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone can occur.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, many cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area. Pain will often initially present in the toes before the condition worsens and spreads throughout the entire foot.
Symptoms
- Swelling and pain in the feet
- Stiffness in the feet
- Pain on the ball or sole of the feet
- Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that your podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor may ask you about your medical history and lifestyle to help determine possible causes of your RA.
Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, so treatment options are designed to specifically target the symptoms of it, most notably the pain it causes. Two types of anti-inflammatory drugs – non-steroidal or NSAIDs and corticosteroids – may be prescribed by your doctor. In some severe cases where the joints are too badly damaged, surgery may be an option. As always, speak with your podiatrist to help determine the appropriate treatment options available to you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Dez Bryant remains on Injured Reserve
Dez Bryant has been on injured reserve after undergoing surgery for both his foot and ankle. The news of Bryant’s placement on injured reserve was originally shared at the end of December by Dallas Cowboys coach Jason Garrett. Bryant had originally broken his right foot in Week 1 during a game against the New York Giants. He had returned to the field during the November 1st game against the Seattle Seahawks but reportedly not one hundred percent himself.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment to prevent exacerbation. If you are seeking treatment for a broken foot, visit Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue (foot)
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About Functional Hallux Limitus
According to podiatrist Dr. Howard Dananberg, functional hallux limitus (FHL) exists as a condition that affects the great toe joint in the foot. FHL differs from the more commonly known hallux limitus in that muscle motion in the joint becomes blocked when weight or pressure is applied. Symptoms of pain or inflammation usually do not show in the toe joint during normal activity like walking, therefore FHL is a subtle condition. FHL can also lead to inflammation in the lower back and neck, affecting the motion of your heels and legs. Dr. Howard Dananberg recommends orthotics and physically treating your muscles as solutions to FHL.
Untreated hallux limitus can become very painful. If you believe you are having problems with your feet, consult with Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M. of Florida. Dr. Klein can treat your foot and ankle needs.
What You Need To Know About Hallux Limitus
Hallux limitus is a medical condition which stands for “stiff toe.” This is an arthritic condition in which movement of the big toe is constrained. The pain is usually allocated between the large toe and foot.
Symptoms
Toe pain is common, therefore many people tend to overlook this issue and believe it’s nothing serious. But, if you notice sharp pain, bone growths, tightness around the joint and even changes in the way you walk. It is vital to see a podiatrist before your condition worsens.
How Do I Get It?
Genetics – hallux limitus can be inherited from your parents, or someone can be who is born with a predisposition to arthritis as well.
Injury – overuse can cause trauma to the joints leading to extra bone growth and wear away the cartilage.
Treatment
Lifestyle & Physical Therapy – having motion and massages to the given area will help slow down complications and gradually increase flexibility.
R.I.C.E. – stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Combining the R.I.C.E method with other treatments is proven effective.
Surgery
If there are no signs of improvement, surgery will be the final option. Surgeries performed are the arthrodesis which fuses the joint. The cheilectomy is when the joint is cleaned of scar tissue, therefore the toe can move freely.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Saint Petersburg, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.