Diabetic foot care is essential to prevent complications, especially when dealing with wounds. Diabetes can impair circulation and reduce sensation in the feet, making it harder to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers can go unnoticed and lead to serious infections. Symptoms of a diabetic foot wound include redness, swelling, warmth, or even pus surrounding the affected area, often accompanied by pain or discomfort. In some cases, you may not feel any pain due to nerve damage. It is important to keep the wound clean and dry. For severe wounds, you might need antibiotics or a specialized wound care regimen. A podiatrist can help by thoroughly assessing the wound, providing the right treatments, and monitoring for infection or further complications. This type of doctor may also recommend custom footwear to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. If you have diabetes and notice any foot wounds, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to promote heatling and prevent further issues.

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 one of our podiatrists from Southwest Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Dallas, and Carrollton, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common infection that makes nails thick, discolored, brittle, and sometimes painful. It happens when fungi get under the nail, often due to warm, moist conditions. Walking barefoot in public places like around pools, gyms, or locker rooms increases the risk. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system are more prone to it. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus by examining the nail and sometimes taking a sample for testing. Treatments include topical antifungal medications, which work best for mild to moderate cases, and oral medications for more severe infections. If oral treatments are not an option due to health reasons, topical therapy may still be effective. Laser treatment or nail removal may be needed in stubborn cases. If your toenails are thick, brittle, or discolored, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Southwest Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

The foot is often overlooked in discussions about overall body health, but it plays a critical role in maintaining balance and supporting movement. As the foundation of your posture and stability, the foot must be mobile and adaptable to function properly. Good foot mobility allows for proper alignment and efficient transfer of force from the ground to the rest of the body. When the foot has the ability to adjust to different surfaces and conditions, it helps maintain balance, reducing the risk of falls and injury. Many people experience limited foot mobility due to tight muscles, poor posture, or insufficient movement, which can affect overall mobility and stability. Prioritizing foot health through exercises that improve flexibility, strength, and adaptability can significantly enhance posture, prevent discomfort, and promote better balance. If you have foot pain or concerns, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on strengthening exercises to improve balance.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Southwest Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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