Items filtered by date: November 2024

Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

Foot Symptoms and Complications of PAD

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a serious condition where narrowed arteries limit blood flow to the limbs, and especially affects the feet. People with peripheral artery disease may experience a persistent cold sensation in their feet, even in warm environments, due to restricted blood circulation. Tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation, especially in the toes, can signal nerve strain caused by reduced oxygen supply. Additionally, skin on the feet may turn pale or develop a bluish tint as circulation diminishes. Peripheral artery disease can also slow toenail growth, leading to thicker, brittle nails that may appear discolored. In advanced cases, patients with PAD might develop painful sores or ulcers on the feet that are slow to heal, increasing the risk of infection and severe complications. A podiatrist can identify signs of peripheral artery disease and help patients manage foot health. If you have foot pain that derives from circulatory issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

  • Claudication (leg pain from walking)
  • Numbness in legs
  • Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
  • Paleness of the skin
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
  • Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

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Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

All About Corns on the Feet

Corns are dense patches of hardened skin that develop on the feet, often as a response to pressure and friction. Corns commonly form on the top or sides of toes or the outer edge of the foot, typically where footwear consistently rubs. High heels, wearing tight or poorly fitted shoes, and even walking without socks can contribute to corn formation by creating repeated friction. Corns are distinct from calluses due to their smaller, deeper size and hard core surrounded by inflamed skin, which can be painful when pressure is applied. Symptoms of corns include a rough, raised bump, tender skin, and occasional flakiness. A podiatrist can diagnose a corn through visual examination, ensuring that other conditions like cysts or warts are ruled out. Professional treatment includes carefully trimming the thickened skin, applying medicated patches, and possibly prescribing custom orthotics to prevent recurrence. If you have developed a painful corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM of Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

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Friday, 15 November 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek the professional help of your podiatrist and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

Causes and Care of Foot Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds to the foot can occur from various sources, often resulting in pain and potential complications. Common causes include stepping on sharp objects like nails, glass, or thorns while walking barefoot. These injuries can introduce bacteria deep into the skin, increasing the risk of infection. Immediate care for a puncture wound is critical. First, the area should be gently cleaned with soap and water to remove any debris. Applying an antiseptic can help prevent infection, followed by covering the wound with a sterile bandage. It is important to monitor the injury for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. Seeking medical attention may be necessary, especially if the wound is deep or if tetanus vaccinations are not up to date. If you have sustained a puncture wound in your foot, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

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 Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. 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 Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

When Cracked Heels Are Beyond Unsightly

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thick, leading to fissures or splits. This condition is often caused by prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, or dry weather. Other contributing factors include obesity, which increases pressure on the heel pad, and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. While cracked heels may seem like just a cosmetic issue, they can become more serious if left untreated. Deep fissures can cause pain, bleeding, and increase the risk of infection, especially if dirt or bacteria enter the cracks. For individuals with diabetes or circulation problems, cracked heels can lead to complications, including ulcers. If you have cracked heels that become painful, or show signs of infection, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

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