Having a wound on the foot often requires immediate care. Many diabetic patients are concerned with this, and methods may be implemented that may help to avoid foot wounds. People who are diabetic may have neuropathy, which is the inability to feel existing cuts and wounds on the feet. For this reason, an unattended wound on the foot can lead to serious complications. Proper foot wound care begins with cleaning the wound, applying an antiseptic, and placing an appropriate covering over it, which is known as a dressing. If the wound is severe, it may be necessary to avoid putting weight on the affected foot. Many patients choose to use crutches or wear a protective boot for mobility. If you have developed a wound on your foot, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat 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 Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors 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 our office located in Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you regularly suffer from foot pain, it is beneficial to spend some time investigating the best type of insoles, which are also referred to as orthotics, to address the situation. Foot pain can have many causes, so the first order of business is to determine the source of discomfort. Many people with plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, bunions, or flat feet are candidates for shoe inserts, which are premade, one-size-fits-all types. Custom orthotics, however, are produced from a mold of your feet and designed to address the specific foot problem you have. While store-bought inserts are less expensive, a custom orthotic is well worth the extra cost. In addition, because the custom orthotic fits your foot perfectly, it also feels comfortable inside your shoe. Finally, a premade orthotic insert may change your gait and do more harm than good. For help with finding the right orthotics for your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough examination of your foot problem.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM from Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Patients who have poor circulation may notice their feet are cold, regardless of the temperature in the room. Additionally, having swollen feet may also be a sign of poor circulation. This may be a result of reduced blood flow, possibly causing the kidneys to function improperly. People who are constantly tired may have poor circulation, which can come from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. A weakened immune system and poor circulation may be linked together, possibly improving with regular exercise. Poor circulation can cause the scalp to become dry, and may lead to a gradual loss of hair. Patients who are afflicted with this condition may notice their nails are affected, as they can become fragile and break easier. If you have the above symptoms and your feet are affected, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat poor circulation.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Shaun J. Limon, DPM and Lisa Griffith-Limon, DPM of Limons Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.