Foot wounds can arise from various causes, with diabetic foot ulcers being a significant concern. Diabetes can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage, reducing the ability to feel injuries and heal properly. Other causes include trauma, such as cuts, burns, or punctures, and pressure sores from prolonged immobility. Proper management of foot wounds involves regular inspection, cleaning, and dressing changes to prevent infection. For diabetic foot ulcers, maintaining blood sugar levels and wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Applying antibiotic ointments and using offloading devices, such as special shoes or braces, can reduce pressure on the wound. Seeking medical attention from a podiatrist for persistent or severe wounds ensures appropriate treatment, which may include debridement or advanced therapies. If you have developed a foot wound, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat any foot condition, which include foot wounds.

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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot, commonly between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes thickens, causing sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot. Symptoms often include a sensation of standing on a pebble, tingling, or numbness in the toes. The pain may worsen with activities like walking or wearing tight shoes. Patients often describe a feeling of something being caught in the shoe or a persistent discomfort in the forefoot. Identifying and addressing these symptoms early can help manage the condition and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing any of the above sensations, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM of Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Falls in older adults are often caused by sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength, leading to reduced stability and increased risk of falls. Poor balance, vision impairments, and certain medications can also contribute to this issue. To prevent falls, incorporating balance and strength exercises into daily routines is essential. Activities such as tai chi, yoga, and resistance training can enhance muscle strength and improve coordination. Additionally, ensuring adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium through diet or supplements can support bone health and reduce fall risk. Regular eye check-ups and managing medications can further prevent falls. Falling can seriously impact the feet, which may cause the inability to complete daily activities. If you have endured a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. This healthcare professional can treat your foot condition, in addition to offering effective fall-prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.