Items filtered by date: November 2024

Poor diabetic foot care can lead to serious complications, including infections, ulcers, and even amputations. Individuals with diabetes often experience reduced blood flow and nerve damage, which can mask injuries and make it difficult to detect problems early. When wounds are left untreated, they can quickly become infected, leading to more severe health issues. Proper diabetic foot care is essential in preventing these complications and can significantly reduce the risk of limb loss. Regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, blisters, or changes in color, along with maintaining good hygiene and wearing appropriate footwear, can help identify potential problems early. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious 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 Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can significantly affect the feet, leading to various debilitating symptoms. Individuals may experience persistent pain and swelling in the joints of the toes and the midfoot, making it difficult to walk or stand comfortably. Stiffness is another common symptom, often more pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can cause deformities, such as bunions or hammer toes, altering the foot's shape and function. Patients may also notice warmth or redness around affected joints, indicating inflammation. Fatigue and a general sense of malaise can accompany these physical symptoms, further impacting daily activities. If you have any of the above symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in the foot are overstretched or torn due to an awkward landing or sudden twisting. This injury often results from activities such as football, snowboarding, and dance, where the body pivots but the foot remains in one place. Foot sprains are classified into three levels. Grade I involves minor tears to the ligament, in grade II the tears are more severe, and with grade III sprains, the ligament is completely torn or detached. Symptoms of midfoot sprains include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your foot sprain and provide treatment, which may involve wearing a splint or boot. Rehabilitation exercises also may be prescribed to strengthen the foot and prevent future injury. In severe cases, surgical repair of the ligaments may be needed. If you have sprained your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.