Living with diabetes requires careful attention to foot health. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to decreased sensation and circulation in the feet. Because of this, even a small cut, blister, or sore may go unnoticed, and develop into a serious complication, if not addressed promptly. A diabetic foot exam is a key step in preventing these problems. During the exam, a podiatrist checks the skin for cuts, calluses, infections, or signs of poor healing. They also test for nerve function and circulation to detect early changes that could put you at risk for ulcers or infections. Wearing proper footwear and daily at-home foot checks are often discussed as part of the visit. Regular foot exams can help catch issues before they become severe. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist to protect your long-term health.

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 David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. 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 Evansville, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Mallet toe is another name for the foot condition that is known as hammertoe. It is an ailment that prevents the toes from straightening out, and they can bend at a downward angle. The toes that are generally affected are the second, third, or fourth toes, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the toes back to a normal position. The reasons many patients develop hammertoe can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, an abnormality in the toe muscles and tendons, or medical conditions such as arthritis. Calluses or corns may form on top of the affected toes, and this can be a result of excess friction that is caused by wearing tight shoes. If you notice the first stages of hammertoe developing, it is strongly suggested that you speak to a podiatrist, who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

Chronic plantar fasciitis is often caused by persistent overuse, excess weight, or standing for extended periods of time. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or damaged. Long-term symptoms typically include ongoing heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may feel sharp, burning, or aching, and can worsen throughout the day. Visibly, there may be no swelling, but the discomfort can significantly impact daily life and mobility. A podiatrist can help by performing a thorough examination and diagnostic imaging to monitor the condition. Treatment options may include custom orthotics, stretching exercises, night splints, and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections. Addressing the underlying causes, such as footwear, weight, and activity level, is essential for long-term relief. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to begin your path to recovery.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact David Reynolds, DPM from First Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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