A diabetic foot ulcer is an open sore that develops on the foot and can be difficult to heal. These wounds often appear on the soles or pressure points where the skin experiences repeated friction. Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, making foot ulcers more likely to develop and harder to treat. Symptoms include an open wound, drainage, or changes in skin color. Some ulcers cause little pain because nerve damage reduces sensation, so regular foot checks are especially important.

High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels. This damage may reduce feeling in the feet and limit circulation, allowing small injuries to become persistent sores. Common risk factors include poorly controlled diabetes, previous foot ulcers, and wearing shoes that rub against the skin. Calluses and foot deformities can also increase pressure on vulnerable areas. Without proper care, an ulcer may become infected and lead to serious complications, including damage to deeper tissues.

If you have a diabetic foot ulcer, contact a podiatrist promptly rather than waiting for it to heal on its own. Keep the wound clean and covered as directed, avoid walking barefoot, and reduce pressure on the affected area. Do not cut away calluses or apply harsh products to the wound. Check your feet daily for new sores, redness, or drainage, and seek urgent medical attention if you develop fever or spreading redness.

A podiatrist will examine the wound, assess circulation and sensation, and check for infection. Treatment may include professional wound cleaning, specialized dressings, and pressure-relieving footwear. Antibiotics may be needed when an infection is present. Managing blood sugar is also essential for healing. If you have diabetes and have developed a foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of 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 Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist 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 office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A high arch, also called cavus foot, can place too much body weight on the heel and ball of the foot. Because less of the sole touches the ground, pressure is not spread evenly while standing or walking. This can cause aching, burning, or tenderness in areas that carry the extra load. Painful calluses can form along the heel, outer edge, or ball of the foot. Some patients also develop bent toes or feel that the ankle is unstable. A heel that tilts inward can make ankle sprains more likely.

Some high arches are inherited and remain fairly stable. Others are connected to a nerve or muscle disorder that changes the strength and balance of the foot. In these cases, the arch can become higher and symptoms can grow worse. Foot drop may also occur when weak muscles make it hard to lift the front of the foot. A podiatrist evaluates the arch, checks muscle strength, and watches how the patient walks. X-rays can show the position of the bones and joints. When signs point to an underlying nerve condition, the podiatrist can recommend further evaluation.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure, improving stability, and making movement more comfortable. A podiatrist can prescribe custom orthotics that cushion high-pressure areas and help distribute weight more evenly. Shoe recommendations can include a stable sole, enough room for the toes, and firm ankle support. A brace can support an unstable ankle or help control foot drop. The podiatrist can also remove painful calluses safely and monitor areas at risk for skin damage. When these treatments do not provide enough relief, surgery may be needed. This can help correct certain bone positions, improve balance, or address tight and weak tissues. The exact approach depends on the cause and severity of the condition. If you have high arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist 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 West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone caused by repeated stress rather than one injury. These fractures often develop when the foot does not have enough time to recover between activities. Running, jumping, and changes in activity can place extra strain on the bones. Common symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, and discomfort that becomes worse with activity. Pain may improve with rest at first, but it can become more noticeable as the injury progresses.

Several risk factors can increase the chance of a stress fracture. Wearing unsupportive footwear may add strain during exercise. Low bone density can also make bones more vulnerable. Other concerns include sudden increases in exercise and poor nutrition. A previous stress fracture may raise the risk of another injury. Pain that continues or becomes stronger should not be ignored, especially when walking starts to feel uncomfortable.

A podiatrist will begin by reviewing your symptoms, activity level, and medical history. The foot will be examined for tenderness, swelling, and areas of pain. Imaging tests may be recommended to help identify a fracture, although some stress fractures are difficult to see early. Treatment often includes reducing activities that place stress on the foot. A protective boot or other support may be suggested when needed. As healing progresses, your podiatrist can guide a gradual return to activity and discuss footwear changes that may reduce future strain.

Your feet need time to heal when a stress fracture develops. Continuing high-impact activity too soon can delay recovery and increase the chance of a more serious fracture. Paying attention to persistent foot pain and giving your body an opportunity to recover are important. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief, treatment, and helpful prevention tips. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. Children and teenagers can develop sprains during sports, play, or daily activities. A sudden twist, awkward landing, or collision can force the ankle beyond its normal range. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and trouble putting weight on the foot. Some sprains are mild, while others can cause significant ligament damage.

Sports are a common cause of ankle sprains in young people. Basketball, soccer, and running can involve quick movements that stress the ankle. Uneven surfaces and awkward landings may also increase injury risk. A previous ankle sprain can make another injury more likely, especially when the ankle has not fully healed. Children with repeated pain or ankle instability should receive an evaluation instead of playing through symptoms.

Some injuries require prompt attention because they may involve a fracture or another serious problem. Severe pain, major swelling, or the inability to bear weight can signal a trauma emergency. A podiatrist will review how the injury happened and examine the foot and ankle. Imaging tests may be recommended when a fracture is suspected. Treatment may include rest, compression, or wearing supportive footwear. Follow-up visits can help monitor healing.

Returning to sports too soon can increase the chance of another sprain. Children should gradually resume activities after pain and swelling improve. The ankle should also regain normal movement and strength before returning to demanding sports. Parents can watch for continued limping, swelling, or pain after an injury. Early treatment can help reduce the chance of lasting ankle problems. If your child or teenager has sustained an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Michael Bess, DPM from Florida. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.