A foot ulcer may begin as something as minor as contact dermatitis, which is a red, itchy rash caused by irritation from a new shoe material, soap, or lotion. This kind of skin reaction can lead to scratching or open sores, which may worsen if not properly treated. In individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, the skin may not heal quickly, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection. What starts as a harmless rash or scrape can turn into a deep ulcer, exposing underlying tissue and putting the foot at risk for serious complications. Early symptoms such as redness, oozing, or pain should never be ignored. Monitoring changes in skin condition is essential to prevent ulcers from forming. If you have a persistent foot rash, sore, or wound that is not improving, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain can affect individuals of all ages. It is not tied to your level of activity, but often stems from conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, or bursitis. Plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of heel pain, occurs when the ligament supporting the foot’s arch becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress. The pain is often sharp, especially with the first few steps in the morning. Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel, can develop from prolonged strain on the foot. Achilles tendonitis causes pain at the back of the heel where the tendon connects to the calf muscle, often triggered by repetitive activity or poor footwear. Bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the heel, can also cause discomfort. A podiatrist can help identify the underlying cause of your heel pain through physical exams and diagnostic imaging like X-rays. Treatment may include rest, targeted exercises, orthotics, or even surgical options for severe cases. If you are experiencing ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing high heels for extended periods of time can lead to foot swelling due to the unnatural position they force on the feet. High heels shift body weight forward onto the balls of the feet, placing excessive pressure on the forefoot and toes. This uneven distribution of weight can restrict blood flow and cause fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities. The lack of proper arch support and narrow toe boxes in many high heels can also compress nerves and blood vessels, further contributing to swelling and discomfort. Over time, this pressure can lead to inflammation, pain, and even more serious foot conditions. Choosing footwear with better support, cushioning, and a lower heel can help reduce swelling and protect long-term foot health while still allowing for stylish options. If you have foot pain from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate heel selections.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Elderly foot care is essential, as aging can lead to various foot conditions like arthritis, stress fractures, and fallen arches. Arthritis in the feet causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often making walking difficult. Stress fractures, which are small cracks in the bones, can result from weakened bones and repetitive stress, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Fallen arches, or flat feet, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, leading to pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, or lower back. These conditions can result from the natural aging process, loss of bone density, or prior injuries. The pain and discomfort can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. A podiatrist can help by providing treatments such as custom orthotics, pain management, targeted exercises, or, in some cases, surgery. They can also recommend footwear modifications to alleviate pressure and improve comfort. If you are dealing with foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, including foot pain caused by factors such as edema and flat feet. Swelling, or edema, occurs due to increased fluid retention and pressure on the veins, leading to discomfort and tenderness in the feet. Flat feet develop as hormonal changes loosen ligaments, causing the arches to flatten and resulting in strain on the muscles and joints. To alleviate discomfort, reducing salt intake can help minimize fluid retention, while maintaining a balanced diet supports overall circulation and tissue health. Gentle foot stretches improve flexibility and relieve tension, providing additional comfort. If foot pain is causing you difficulty completing daily tasks, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer you additional relief methods.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.