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What Can Cause Diabetes?

Monday, 14 December 2020

There are many reasons people can develop diabetes. These can consist of genetics, environmental factors, and eating habits. The feet are often affected in diabetic patients, and it may be difficult to feel sensations. This can result in the development of foot ulcers, and in severe cases, the toes and entire foot can be lost to amputation. It is beneficial to check your feet on a daily basis for any cuts, scrapes, or sores. It is important to wear shoes that fit correctly, and this can be implemented by trying shoes on at the end of the day when the feet are generally at their largest. There are several methods diabetic patients can use to protect their feet, and it is suggested that a podiatrist be consulted for additional information.

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 Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 office located in Greenville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

Monday, 07 December 2020

The painful condition that is known as an ingrown toenail can occur from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additional reasons why ingrown toenails develop can include genetic factors or if the toenail is improperly trimmed. The nail becomes ingrown as the outer edges of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, and this generally causes severe pain and discomfort. It may also become red and inflamed and it can be difficult to wear certain shoes. Patients may find mild relief when the affected toe is soaked in warm water, which can soften the skin to make it easier to gently lift the nail away. In severe cases the nail may become infected, and partial or total removal may be a necessary option to consider. If you have an ingrown toenail please confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

Improper toenail trimming
Genetics
Improper shoe fitting
Injury from pedicures or nail picking
Abnormal gait
Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

What Is Raynaud's Disease?

Monday, 30 November 2020

Raynaud’s disease is a disorder that causes temporarily reduced blood flow to the hands and feet. The reduction in blood flow is due to a contraction of the smooth muscles controlling the small arteries that supply blood to the hands and feet. This contraction is also known as a vasospasm. In people with Raynaud’s disease, vasospasms may be triggered by stress or cold temperatures. These can lead to the affected areas becoming numb, cool to the touch, and white or bluish in color. When blood flow returns to normal, the affected areas may throb, tingle, or turn red. If you have symptoms of Raynaud’s disease in your feet, a podiatrist can teach you how to manage this condition.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact one of our podiatrists from Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet.

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

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Saturday, 28 November 2020

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

The Difference Between Corns and Calluses

Monday, 23 November 2020

Corns and calluses occur due to friction or pressure on the feet. While calluses are usually asymptomatic and cover a broader area of skin, corns are deeper, more focused and more painful. Corns are usually pea-sized, have a plug, and extend deep into the surface of the skin. Calluses tend to stay closer to the surface, without a plug. Treatment options for both include manual removal, cushioning the affected area, and adjusting biomechanics, such as changing your shoes. Patients who frequently have issues with corns and calluses should consult with a podiatrist for proper preventative measures and various treatment options.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

Well-fitting socks
Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

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