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February 2019

Monday, 25 February 2019 00:00

Wounds and Diabetes

Many diabetic patients are aware of the importance of inspecting their feet daily for wounds and bruises. Neuropathy may accompany diabetes, and this is the inability to feel cuts that may be present on the feet. Patients who are unable to see the bottom of their feet may find it helpful to use a mirror, or to have someone check them for any cuts that are not healing. If the wound requires a dressing, it is important to change it frequently. This may help to achieve the correct level of moisture that is necessary for proper drainage and healing. Maintaining blood sugar levels within your target range may be beneficial in promoting the healing process. This may be done by eating healthy foods which have adequate amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals. If you have wounds on your feet, it is strongly suggested to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat any foot condition.

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 feel free to contact our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 18 February 2019 00:00

Different Types of Foot Pain

There are numerous causes and types of foot pain that many patients may experience over the course of their lifetimes. These may include fractures, sprains, injuries to the Achilles tendon, or objects that may have become imbedded. A type of arthritis which is referred to as gout can cause severe pain and discomfort, and this may last for several days. If shoes are worn that fit incorrectly, corns or blisters may develop, and this may cause pain while walking. Research has shown warts may cause discomfort, and this may be especially true if the wart grows into the heel of the foot, which is known as a plantar wart. If the nail should grow into the surrounding skin, tenderness and redness will often accompany this ailment. Additionally, a common foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis may cause extreme pain and discomfort, and this may be a result of inflammation of the band of tissue that is located on the sole of the foot. It is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide a proper diagnosis and begin correct treatments for any type of foot pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.

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 offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 11 February 2019 00:00

What Time of Day Should Shoes Be Purchased?

Research has indicated the majority of your day may run smoother if the correct shoes are worn. The feet are typically at their largest during the afternoon, and it may be beneficial to purchase shoes at that time. It may help to wear the socks that will be worn with the shoes, which can be instrumental in choosing shoes that fit well. The size of the feet may change over time, and it is suggested that both feet be measured every time shoes are purchased. Once a pair of shoes is decided on, it is important to notice if there is adequate room in the toe area while standing. Additionally, it is suggested to briefly walk in them, and this may help to determine how comfortable they are. If you would like more information about how to buy shoes, please speak with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

  • Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
  • Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
  • Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
  • Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
  • Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Published in Blog
Monday, 04 February 2019 00:00

What to Do About a Broken Ankle

Breaking a bone is a painful and stressful situation, especially if you rely on that bone to walk. There are a couple signs that differentiate an ankle break from an ankle sprain. Those signs include, severe pain, tenderness, immediate bruising and swelling, difficulty moving your foot, inability to put weight on your foot, dislocation of bone, a snapping sound, and bleeding. Once it has been determined that the ankle is broken, action should be taken immediately. Either call an ambulance or have someone drive to your nearest emergency room, then elevate the injured leg. After elevating the leg, apply an ice pack or anything accessible that is cold to help with the swelling. Also, the injured individual should abstain from eating anything in case they will have to get surgery after arriving to the hospital. If you have any additional questions regarding how to handle or recover from a broken ankle, then it is recommended you speak with a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

  • Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
  •  Swelling around the area
  •  Bruising of the area
  • Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Corpus Christi, and Laredo, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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