Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetics are at a much higher risk for developing foot problems, and more than half of those with diabetes can lose sensation in the feet due to nerve or blood vessel damage. Nerve damage (neuropathy) causes numbness of the feet which hinders the ability to detect pain or discomfort.
Poor blood circulation in the feet makes the healing process slower for a diabetic. People with diabetes need to be aware of how foot problems can affect their health. Minor injuries can become life-threatening, and problems like blisters or ingrown toenails must be carefully attended to as they can lead to serious infections or tissue death. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary.
Common diabetes-related foot and leg problems include infections and ulcers, nail disorders, bunions, and blocked arteries. These problems can arise because of poor circulation in the feet.
Special attention of the feet is a daily necessity for those who have diabetes. Regular doctor visits can ensure that problems are caught early and treated accordingly. Columbus Foot Clinic will work to prevent and treat complications from diabetes.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on your skin. They often appear on feet where the bony parts of your feet rub against your shoes. Corns usually appear on the tops or sides of toes, while calluses form on the soles of feet. Calluses also can appear on hands or other areas that are rubbed or pressed
Warts
Plantar warts typically appear on the bottom of the foot and most commonly develop in children, adolescents and the elderly. In most cases, plantar warts are not a major health concern and, for the most part, are a cosmetic concern. However, if painful or uncomfortable, the removal of plantar warts may be necessary. If self-care methods are not successful, patients may need to see a podiatrist for surgical treatment.
Ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails are among the most common of nail complaints heard by Columbus Foot Clinic. Normally, toenails are supposed to grow straight out, but ingrown nails grow into the skin at the nail’s border. Ingrown toenails are often painful, red, and swollen. In some cases, ingrown toenails can become infected if the nail causes a break in the skin, subsequently allowing bacteria to enter. If this occurs, a thorough examination is highly recommended.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, sometimes called heel spur syndrome, is an inflammatory condition that causes pain in the connective tissues located on the bottom of the foot and along heel to the arch of the foot. Plantar Fasciitis is a very common condition that can become difficult to cure if not cared for properly. Tendons and ligaments develop small tears that accumulate from overuse that become worse over time. Columbus Foot Clinic can help you get back to feeling better in no time.
Hammertoes
Hammertoe is a bending of one or both joints of the second, third, fourth or fifth toes. This abnormal bending can put pressure on the toe when wearing shoes, causing problems to develop.
Hammertoes may be aggravated by shoes that don’t fit properly. A hammertoe may result if a toe is too long and is forced into a cramped position when a tight shoe is worn. Occasionally, hammertoe is the result of an earlier trauma to the toe or are inherited.
Common symptoms of hammertoes include:
Pain or irritation of the affected toe when wearing shoes
Corns and calluses on the toe, between two toes or on the ball of the foot. Corns are caused by constant friction against the shoe. They may be soft or hard, depending upon their location.
Inflammation, redness or a burning sensation
In more severe cases of hammertoe, open sores may form
