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Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

When Foot Infections Become More Serious

Foot infections can affect anyone, but they tend to be more complicated in people with diabetes. Even a small cut, blister, or sore can worsen quickly when blood flow or sensation is reduced. In these cases, the body may not respond as efficiently, allowing the problem to spread deeper into the skin or surrounding tissue. Compared to those without diabetes, these infections are more likely to return after treatment, require hospital care, or lead to more extensive procedures. Healing can also take longer, especially if the issue is not addressed early. For individuals without diabetes, infections still need prompt attention, but they often resolve more quickly with appropriate care. The key in all cases is early recognition and treatment. If you notice redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, or increasing pain in your foot, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may require wound care.

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 Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. 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 contact our office located in Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Toenail Fungus Can Cause Thick and Discolored Nails

Toenail fungus can develop for several reasons related to environment, nail health, and overall foot care. This infection affects the nail unit, which protects the toes and helps support balance and pressure during walking. It commonly begins when fungi  enter the body  through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. and it occurs in warm, moist environments like inside tight shoes or damp socks. Over time, the nail may become thickened, brittle, and discolored. It can appear yellow, white, or brown and may lift from the nail bed or develop a crumbly texture. A podiatrist can examine the nail and may perform tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include topical or oral antifungal medications, professional trimming or thinning of the nail, and guidance on proper hygiene and footwear to reduce recurrence. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions. 

For more information about treatment, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Is It Rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout?

Foot pain can sometimes be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout, each affecting the joints in different ways. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints. The joints may feel warm, appear swollen, and become increasingly stiff, especially in the morning or after rest. Over time, joint shape may change, leading to deformities and difficulty walking. Gout typically presents as a sudden and intense attack of pain, often affecting the big toe. The joint may become red, hot, and extremely tender, sometimes developing overnight. This occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. A podiatrist can help distinguish between these conditions through examination and testing. They can then coordinate care that may include medication, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to protect the joints. If you have foot pain from rheumatoid arthritis or gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. 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 Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Fall Prevention at Home to Protect Your Feet and Ankles

Preventing falls at home is essential for maintaining safety and protecting foot and ankle health in seniors. Keeping objects off steps, fixing uneven surfaces, and ensuring proper lighting at the top and bottom of stairs can reduce the risk of accidents. Repairing loose carpet and securing handrails adds stability, while installing grab bars in the shower provides additional support in slippery areas. Falls can lead to injuries such as ankle sprains, fractures, and soft tissue damage that affect mobility and independence. A podiatrist can assess balance, evaluate foot structure, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics to improve stability. If you have injured your foot or ankle from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions, and guide you on additional 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 Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. 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 our office located in Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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