For those individuals with diabetes, about half experience nerve damage, often affecting the feet and legs. Numbness, tingling, or no symptoms at all may arise, depriving diabetic patients of pain perception. While the idea of pain-free living seems attractive, it heightens the risk of overlooking minor foot problems, such as cuts or sores, which can escalate and pose serious problems. The absence of pain sensation can lead to severe complications, potentially resulting in limb loss if wounds or ulcers on the foot do not heal. Factors increasing the likelihood of nerve damage include poorly managed blood sugar, prolonged diabetes duration, age over 40, excess weight, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol. Nerve damage, coupled with poor blood flow, significantly elevates the risk of foot ulcers that resist healing and may become infected. Daily foot checks are pivotal. Vigilantly examining your feet allows for early issue identification and timely treatment, crucial in reducing serious complications. A podiatrist is medically trained to manage foot problems associated with diabetes, including wound care for ulcers and infections. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular visits with a podiatrist to monitor the health of your feet.
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 Riznyk 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
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 office located in Orchard Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
One common question new parents often have is when to start putting shoes on their babies. The general consensus among pediatricians and experts is that babies do not need shoes until they are walking. Before that, it is best to let them explore the world barefoot or with soft, flexible booties. Babies' feet are still developing, and walking barefoot helps their muscles and bones grow naturally. It also allows them to better sense the ground, improving their balance and coordination. Soft-soled shoes or booties can be used for warmth or protection when necessary. When your baby starts taking those first steps, typically between nine and 18 months, it is time to consider their first pair of shoes. Ensure that the shoes fit well, are flexible, and provide good traction. If you are seeking more information about when to fit your child for their first pair of shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Riznyk Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Orchard Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Laser therapy uses focused light to destroy toenail fungus, preventing it from spreading or getting worse. This type of treatment has evolved since the 1980s with various lasers now in use, affecting the success rate for different individuals. Laser treatment can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot take certain medications due to liver or kidney problems, in addition to people with diabetes, and older adults who might not tolerate drugs well. Early treatment of toenail fungus is advised by the CDC to stop the spread of the infection and ensure better results. If not treated, the fungus may spread beyond the toenails. If you have toenail fungus, particularly if it does not resolve with more conservative treatment, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether laser treatment may be an option worth considering.
Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Riznyk Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.
What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?
Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:
Diagnosis for Fungal Nails
Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.
What Is Laser Treatment?
Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Orchard Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition where one or both feet lack the typical arch structure. Instead, the bottom of the foot lies flat on the ground. While babies are initially born with flat feet, their arches generally begin to develop by the age of two or three. However, some people may continue to have flat feet into adulthood. In older children, common symptoms of flat feet include foot or ankle pain, heel or arch pain, and discomfort during walking and running. Adults with flat feet may experience symptoms such as tired or achy feet after prolonged standing, sports activities, or exercise. Many also experience lower back, hip, and knee pain. In children, many cases are attributed to what is called flexible flat feet, a result of loose joint connections and baby fat between the foot bones. This can cause the arch to collapse when the child stands. In adults, flat feet can be linked to factors like weakened or torn tendons, rheumatoid arthritis, midfoot fractures, or ligament injuries. Recognizing the signs and understanding the underlying causes of flat feet is essential for proper management and treatment. If you believe that flat feet are causing health and mobility problems for you or your child, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, a gait assessment, and appropriate treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Riznyk Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Orchard Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!
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