August 2023

Diabetes is a condition that affects how sugar in the blood is controlled. Those with the condition are at a greater risk of developing wounds on their feet because of nerve and vein damage. These can be painful and take a long time to heal. If left untreated, they can lead to amputation of the foot or leg. Negative pressure wound therapy, or NPWT, is a method where a special dressing is put on the wound, and a machine sucks out any fluid from the wound. This method is used to help wounds heal faster, but it is more expensive than regular wound dressings. Studies on this method have shown that while this is a beneficial treatment, it may not be better than traditional foot wound treatment, and more research is needed. Diabetes is a serious condition, and if you are suffering from this disease and have foot problems, including wounds on your feet, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Aging affects various aspects of our bodies, including changes to the feet. Common problems that develop with aging affect the toenails, skin, and structure of the feet. Toenails often become thicker, more brittle, and susceptible to fungal infections due to diminished circulation. To counteract these effects, prioritize wearing comfortable shoes with wide-toe boxes to prevent crowding and promote airflow. Aging also impacts skin cell regeneration, leading to thinning, dryness, and skin lesions. This can result in cracked heels, corns, and calluses. Protecting the feet from the elements and opting for supportive, comfortable footwear will contribute to healthier skin as you age. The structure of the feet undergoes significant changes as you age, affecting tendons, ligaments, and arch support. Over time, tendons and ligaments lose elasticity and strength, leading to flattened arches and lengthened feet. The fat pads that cushion your heels also diminish, increasing the risk of heel pain, tendon tears, and muscle strains. One of the main ways of staving off the effects of aging on the feet is to invest in properly fitting footwear. Seek out shoes that offer proper support and cushioning. For help with foot problems as you age, it is suggested that you make a podiatrist a regular member of your healthcare team.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Maintaining good circulation is vital for overall health. Symptoms often noticed in the feet include a numbing or tingling sensation and they may feel cold. There are methods that can be implemented that may help to prevent poor circulation naturally. First, stay active and engage in regular exercise to promote blood flow. Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, and take short walks or stretch breaks. Maintain a healthy diet, including foods rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Quit smoking, as it constricts blood vessels and hinders circulation. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, like meditation or yoga. Opt for compression socks or stockings to improve blood flow in the legs. Keep your body hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Ensure proper posture and avoid crossing your legs when sitting. Finally, avoid tight-fitting clothing that can restrict blood flow. If you notice signs of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The arches of the feet work to transfer the weight from the heels to the toes when you walk. When the tendons and ligaments of the foot, which make up the arch, are inflamed they can cause pain and discomfort. The main type of arch pain comes from plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the toes to the heels, and it can become inflamed and painful. Another cause of arch pain is a bone fracture or sprained ligament. Arthritis and flat feet also may result in arch pain. The type and cause of the arch pain will dictate how to handle it. Grade 1 arch pain happens during activity. Grade 2 occurs before and after the activity but doesn’t impede the activity itself. Grade 3 arch pain occurs before, during, and after activity, and it also affects performance. Finally, with Grade 4 arch pain, activity is difficult, and pain is constant. For more information on how to deal with foot arch pain, 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 one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the digital nerve that leads to the toes. It is commonly experienced between the third and fourth toes and can feel as if there is a small pebble in your shoe. A Morton’s neuroma also may be termed an interdigital neuroma, interdigital neuritis, or a plantar neuron. The main symptom is sharp and burning pain in the ball of the foot, especially while walking or running. Some numbness or tingling may also be present. High-heeled shoes, which increase pressure on the ball of the foot, may make the situation worse. Tight or narrow shoes that squeeze the toes can also contribute to the discomfort. Treatments for Morton’s neuroma include changes in footwear, wearing inserts in the shoes, injections of corticosteroid medication, and shockwave therapy. In severe cases, surgery to remove part of the affected nerve or surrounding tissue may be considered. If you are experiencing pain that may be caused by Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.