Items filtered by date: July 2022

Foot problems can easily develop in diabetic patients. A diabetic person may experience neuropathy, which is the inability to feel cuts or scrapes on the foot because of nerve damage. Elevated blood sugar levels also can cause the feet to become numb. Existing cuts can become infected, which may lead to developing a foot ulcer. If immediate treatment is not received, gangrene can develop and, in severe cases, amputation may become necessary. It is beneficial for diabetic patients to take proper care of their feet. This often starts with checking the feet daily for cuts and bruises, and many people use a mirror to do this. The toenails need to be trimmed properly, and this is often done by visiting a podiatrist. Glucose levels may be improved by quitting smoking, and eating a healthy, balanced diet daily. Additionally, the feet will feel more comfortable when the shoes that are worn fit properly, and this may prevent unnecessary foot conditions from developing. It is strongly advised for diabetic patients to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat and manage this 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 one of our podiatrists from Yuen Podiatry PC. 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 Flushing, Elmhurst, and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The foot has 30 ligaments, five of which connect the long bones of the midfoot (metatarsals) to the toes (phalanges). The ligaments form a capsule around the joint, helping it to work properly when you walk, run, or jump. When such a ligament becomes inflamed, it causes a pain called capsulitis. The most common form of this condition occurs in the second toe, often the result of a bunion, a longer second toe, flat feet, or low arches. It is sometimes mistaken for Morton’s neuroma, but that is a separate condition that affects the nerves. Capsulitis of the second toe is progressive and worsens over time, usually because of genetics or overuse. Long-term wearing of high heels may also have contributed to this. A podiatrist can examine your foot to detect the source of the pain using an X-ray and manipulation of the affected area. Conservative treatments, such as ice, rest, medication, and orthotics may be recommended. Changing footwear, taping, and splinting can also help. If these methods are not effective, or if your condition is particularly advanced, surgery may be another option.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Yuen Podiatry PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Flushing, Elmhurst, and Brooklyn, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.