Plantar warts, those stubborn growths on the soles of your feet, can be both persistent and frustrating. Sometimes, but rarely, they can also lead to consistent foot pain.

While some people find success with over-the-counter treatments, others may struggle with recurring warts that require professional attention.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of plantar warts, exploring their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and when it's essential to consult a podiatrist for expert care.

What Are Plantar Warts? Understanding the Basics

First things first, let’s review what a plantar wart is. Plantar warts are small, rough growths on your feet caused by an infection with HPV in the outer layer of your skin. The virus can enter your skin through small cuts, breaks, or weak spots, hence why they often occur in the parts of your feet that bear the most pressure. 

Signs You Need to Visit a Podiatrist for Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are typically more of an annoyance than a serious health concern. However, if they persist, it might be time to see a podiatrist. Here are some signs that a podiatrist's intervention is necessary:

• Treatment Resistance: You've tried over-the-counter remedies such as salicylic acid or wart-freezing sprays, but your warts remain unfazed.
• Recurring Warts: You've successfully treated plantar warts in the past, but they continue to come back.
• Signs of Infection: Your warts show signs of infection, such as discoloration or pus drainage.
• Painful Discomfort: The warts cause significant foot pain or discomfort that interferes with your daily activities.

The Importance of Early Treatment for Plantar Warts

While plantar warts can go away on their own, it can take many months or even years. As soon as you notice a plantar wart on yourself or a loved one, take steps to get rid of it. If it does not help in a few weeks, call your podiatrist. Plantar warts are caused by an infection and are highly contagious. These warts can spread to more regions of your body or to other people around you through direct contact or contaminated shoes.

Podiatrist Treatments for Plantar Warts: What to Expect

A podiatrist will examine your feet and diagnose the warts. They can then recommend various treatment options, depending on the severity of your warts and your individual needs. Treatments might include:

• Thicker Dosing of Salicylic Acid: Prescription-strength salicylic acid might be more effective than over-the-counter options.
• Cryotherapy (Freezing): The podiatrist freezes the wart with liquid nitrogen, which destroys wart tissue and causes it to fall off.
• Minor Surgical Procedures: In some cases, the podiatrist might remove the wart through minor surgical procedures like curettage (removal using a small spoon-shaped tool) or laser treatment.

Essential Tips for Managing Plantar Warts

Managing plantar warts effectively involves more than just treatment; it requires understanding and addressing underlying health concerns and maintaining open communication with your podiatrist. Here are some essential tips to help you manage plantar warts and ensure optimal foot health.

• If you have diabetes or poor circulation, it's especially important to see a podiatrist for any foot concerns, including plantar warts.
• Discuss any concerns you have about potential scarring from wart removal procedures with your podiatrist.
• Together with your podiatrist, you can develop a personalized plan to manage your plantar warts and prevent future occurrences.

Take Action Against Plantar Warts: When to See a Podiatrist

Don't let plantar warts win the battle for your feet. By understanding the signs that require a podiatrist's expertise and taking early action, you can achieve lasting relief and keep those pesky warts at bay. If you or someone you know is struggling with plantar warts, make an appointment with a certified podiatrist today.

The Achilles tendon is a vital part of your anatomy, running along the back of the ankle and connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overworking this tendon can lead to issues like heel pain, stiffness in the calves, and overall weakness. To help you avoid Achilles tendon injuries during exercise, the podiatrists at Physicians Footcare have compiled five essential tips to strengthen this area and minimize injury risks. 

1. Warm Up Before Exercising 

An active warm-up is crucial in preventing Achilles tendon injuries.

Stretching and strengthening activities help loosen and protect the muscles around the tendon. Podiatrists recommend including these exercises in your warm-up routine:

• Calf stretches: Pull your toes toward your shin and hold for 15 to 30 seconds on each foot.
• Foam rolling: Use a foam roller to loosen the calf muscles, preventing tension in the Achilles tendon.
• Calf strengthening exercises: Standing calf raises helps to strengthen the calf muscles. Stand with your feet apart, raise your toes, and hold weights for added resistance.
• Light cardio: A five to ten-minute jog, walk, or workout circuit increases blood circulation in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, preparing them for your workout.

2. Increase Workout Intensity Gradually

Be cautious when ramping up the intensity of your workouts. Increasing running distance or exercise duration too quickly can raise the risk of Achilles tendon injuries. Podiatrists recommend gradually increasing your workouts by about 10% each time. Adding too much intensity too soon can lead to foot and heel pain, potentially resulting in injury.

3. Exercise on Flat Surfaces

Running, walking, and exercising on uneven terrain can cause inflammation and tension in the Achilles tendon. To minimize this risk, choose flat, even pavements or tracks for running. Avoiding routes with uphill sections can help alleviate strain on the Achilles tendon, reducing the chances of complications.

4. Listen to Your Body

Persistent heel pain, stiffness, and inflammation in your calf muscles are signals to take a break from intense physical activity. Ignoring these symptoms can worsen your condition, increasing the risk of Achilles tendon rupture and long-term tendinitis. Rest, ice, and calf-strengthening exercises are essential for addressing heel pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also help reduce inflammation. Always seek professional medical advice if you experience chronic heel pain.

5. Wear the Right Footwear

Proper footwear is crucial for preventing Achilles tendon injuries. Choose sneakers or athletic shoes that offer sufficient cushioning and support during physical activity. Over time, athletic shoes can lose their supportive properties, so regularly replacing worn-out shoes is essential to avoid foot and heel pain.

Mix Up Your Exercise Intensity

High-intensity workouts like running, dancing, or kickboxing can increase the risk of Achilles tendon strain. However, mixing in low-intensity workouts such as swimming, yoga, and biking can reduce injury risks. Varying your exercise intensity allows your muscles to strengthen and recover before engaging in high-impact activities again.

Treating Achilles Tendon Pain

Achilles tendon pain is common but can often be managed at home with proper care. Treatment options include rest, over-the-counter pain medication, ice therapy, and exercises to strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles. If left untreated, Achilles tendon pain can lead to severe complications like tendon rupture. Seek medical advice if the pain persists or worsens.

If you're experiencing Achilles tendon pain, injuries, or complications, contact the experienced podiatrists at Physicians Footcare. Our dedicated team specializes in treating Achilles tendon and heel pain, providing personalized care to help you get back on your feet. Schedule an appointment with us today to start your recovery journey.

Following foot and ankle surgery, you might feel restless and eager to resume normal activities. However, the recovery period is crucial for your overall health and must be taken seriously to gain the full benefits of the surgery. Whether your procedure was to address chronic foot pain or an accidental injury, here are some key points to ensure your recovery is smooth and painless.

At Physicians Footcare, we are dedicated to helping you get back on your feet as swiftly as possible. That's why we prioritize foot and ankle surgery recovery. As your local podiatrists, we’ve prepared this guide on what to expect during your recovery.

Postoperative Recovery Steps for Foot and Ankle Surgery

Common foot and ankle conditions that benefit from surgery include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Ankle Arthritis
• Achilles Tendon Disorders
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Tibialis Posterior Disorder
• Plantar Fasciitis

Immediately following your surgery, doctors and other medical professionals will closely monitor you. Depending on your procedure, you may be under anesthesia, which can cause grogginess post-operation. You may need to stay overnight for observation, but often, you will be discharged the same day. Arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home, as you won't be able to drive yourself.

Essential Tips for Home Care After Foot Surgery

During the initial days after your surgery, rest is vital. Plan to spend the first week at home, and arrange for help with activities like eating and bathing if needed. Engage in activities that keep your mind occupied to prevent boredom. Use crutches or a wheelchair if you need to leave the house to avoid putting weight on your foot.

Key recommendations during this phase include:

1. Keeping your foot elevated to reduce swelling
2. Applying ice to manage pain
3. Resting as much as possible
4. Keeping your dressing and wound care dry and clean

Follow all your doctor's instructions, even if you feel you are healing faster than expected. If prescribed medications or antibiotics, take the required dosage to ease pain and aid healing. Begin physical therapy or stretching exercises as recommended. Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. 

Regaining Mobility: Foot Surgery Recovery Weeks 2-6

As you progress in your recovery, you will start to regain mobility and strength. It’s important to increase your activity level gradually to avoid further pain or injury.

From weeks two to six, podiatrists recommend:

1. Engaging in physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises to regain stability and balance
2. Attending follow-up appointments to monitor progress, remove stitches if necessary, and possibly undergo X-rays or MRIs
3. Gradually resuming regular activities like work, exercise, and driving, following your doctor's guidelines

Long-Term Foot and Ankle Surgery Recovery: What to Expect

Returning to normal foot and ankle function can take one to two years, depending on your surgery. You may need to make some lifestyle adjustments, such as:

• Wearing supportive shoes
• Avoiding high-impact activities
• Maintaining a nutritious diet and staying hydrated

Patience and emotional support are crucial during this long-term recovery. Foot and ankle surgery can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors, and engage in activities you enjoy. Remember, recovery is not linear, and it’s normal to experience ups and downs.

Expert Support for Your Foot Surgery Recovery with Physicians Footcare

Recovery after foot and ankle surgery can be a long and intimidating process. Understanding the recovery process allows for better preparation and confidence in your long-term recovery goals.

As the southeast’s premier podiatry practice, Physicians Footcare is here to support you during your recovery. With esteemed podiatrists throughout our South Carolina and Georgia offices, we are dedicated to helping you return to the activities you love. If you are planning foot and ankle surgery, schedule an appointment with us today.

If your child is complaining about pain in their toe or if you notice redness and swelling around the area, they likely have an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails are a common cause of foot pain in children, affecting twenty out of one hundred people who visit a doctor for foot pain. However, they can be extremely painful and agitating if left untreated.

Untreated ingrown toenails can lead to infection and cause additional discomfort. Today, the team at Physicians Footcare, your local podiatry office, will delve into the best practices for treating your child’s ingrown toenail.

Recognizing Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and in some cases, infection. While they may occur naturally, other causes include cutting toenails too short, poorly fitting shoes, and improper foot hygiene.

Children may be unable to articulate their symptoms, making it important for parents to recognize the common signs of ingrown toenails. Recognizable symptoms of ingrown toenails include:

• Pain and discomfort: Your child may complain about foot pain around the big toe area.
• Redness and swelling: The affected area may appear red and swollen.
• Fluid and pus: A build-up of fluid or pus may surround the affected area.
• Bleeding: Bleeding may occur around the affected area.
• Footwear discomfort: Pain around the affected area when wearing shoes.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, be sure to contact a podiatrist to get proper treatment.  

Home Treatment Options for Your Child’s Ingrown Toenail

If the nail is not infected or too painful, you can perform several treatment options at home to ease foot pain and prevent the ingrown toenail from growing back. Home treatment options include:

• Trim the toenail straight across to encourage it to grow back straighter.
• Soak your child’s foot in warm water daily for 15-20 minutes to ease foot pain and reduce swelling.
• Gently place cotton under the ingrown toenail to redirect the growth, and change it daily.
• Invest in proper footwear for your child that leaves room in the toe area.

If the ingrown toenail is not too severe, these treatment methods will ease discomfort and allow the toenail to grow straight. Most importantly, never attempt to remove the ingrown toenail at home as it can cause infection or symptoms to persist. If your child continues to complain about foot pain following these at-home treatment methods, consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist.

Professional Treatment Options

Podiatrists offer several professional treatments depending on the severity of the toenail that offer permanent relief. As experienced podiatrist professionals, here are four professional treatments to address an ingrown toenail:

1. Antibiotics: Your podiatrist may prescribe antibiotics in the case of an infection. Be sure to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms subside.
2. Lifting the Nail: Gently lifting the nail and placing a splint or cotton under the nail is a solution some podiatrists may perform when the ingrown is not too severe.
3. Partial Nail Removal: If the ingrown is more severe or infected, a podiatrist may partially remove the nail using a local anesthetic to numb the area.
4. Full Nail Removal: In the most severe cases, full nail removal may be necessary for the ingrown to heal fully. Similar to partial nail removal, your podiatrist will use a local anesthetic to remove the entire toenail. This procedure requires a longer recovery time, and it can take months for your toenail to regrow.

Taking Preventative Measures

Once you have properly treated your child’s ingrown toenail, it is important to teach them preventative measures so the foot pain doesn’t reoccur. To prevent ingrown toenails in the future, we recommend you:

• Trim Toenails Properly: Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
• Buy Proper Fitting Footwear: Ensure your footwear leaves room for your toes to move around.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your feet daily and keep nails dry and clean.

Deciding What Treatment is Best For Your Child

Treating your child’s ingrown toenail promptly after symptoms arise can prevent further discomfort or infection. If you have noticed some of the symptoms listed above, do not hesitate to contact a podiatrist to decipher what treatment method is the best for your child. Understanding the symptoms and knowing when to seek professional help will keep your child happy and healthy.

At Physicians Footcare, we are committed to helping you get back on your feet. As the southeast’s premier podiatry practice, we serve locations all throughout South Carolina and Georgia. If you notice symptoms of an ingrown toenail in your child, request an appointment with us here today.

In all levels of sports, whether you're a professional or just beginning, foot health is critical to your performance as an athlete. Athletes who play high-impact sports like basketball, soccer, or tennis are more susceptible to foot pain and injury.

Fortunately, sports medicine strategies such as proper warm-ups or correct footwear can prevent the likelihood of foot pain or injury. In this blog post, your local podiatry office, Physicians Footcare, will guide you through preventative measures and sports medicine strategies to maintain foot health while playing high-impact sports.

Why Foot Health Matters

Foot injuries make up around 20% of all sports injuries. Your foot is a complex body part, where bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together to support your body weight and facilitate movement. With too much force or stress on your foot while playing sports, injuries and foot pain can easily occur. Understanding your foot's complexities and demands is crucial to maintaining foot health. 

Proper Footwear for High-Impact Sports

The key to maintaining foot health and preventing injury starts with investing in the proper footwear for your sport. While playing basketball, opt for a high-top shoe with more ankle support. If you are a runner, podiatrists suggest a cushioned and lightweight running shoe. Additionally, make sure to swap out worn-out shoes to prevent injury. Ensuring your shoe fits properly is equally important when deciding what shoe is best for your sport.

Warm-Up and Cool-Down Routines

Sports medicine professionals advise incorporating a proper warm-up and cool-down into your routine to ensure you maintain your foot health and prevent injury when playing high-impact sports. A good warm-up increases blood flow, and stretching allows for more flexibility in the muscles and ligaments. A cool-down similarly improves flexibility and decreases the chance of injury.

Try these moves for your next warm-up and cool-down:

Warm-Up:

• Dynamic stretching to increase blood flow
• Ankle circles, calf raises, and toe taps to prepare your feet and ankles for high-impact movement
• Light cardio such as jogging or jumping jacks
• Focus on form and control when completing these exercises

Cool-Down:

• Low-intensity cardio like walking or cycling
• Static stretches focusing on lengthening and relaxing your muscles, such as toe stretch, calf stretch, and seated arch stretch
• Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt after your workout if necessary to prevent soreness or foot pain

Gradual Progression in Training

Beginning a new sport is exciting. You may be tempted to jump into intense training every day to improve your skills. However, a sudden increase in high-intensity training can put a lot of strain on your feet and ankles. Podiatrists recommend gradually increasing the intensity and amount of training you do to avoid injuries like stress fractures.

1. Avoid sudden spikes in training volume and mileage to prevent injury.
2. Gradually increase your training schedule and duration to build up foot and ankle strength.
3. Incorporate cross-training activities to vary your workouts and prevent overuse injuries.
4. Take rest and recovery days to rebuild and repair muscle tissue.

Listen to Your Body

It is easy to ignore signs of foot pain and injury when you are eager to play your high-impact sport. However, it is imperative to listen to the signs from your body. Ignoring signs of pain can lead to overuse injuries, chronic pain, and, in some cases, long-term damage.

Pay attention to these three things to improve your health:

• Pain vs. Discomfort: Discomfort is common in high-impact sports; however, if you feel consistent or worsening pain in repeated areas, seek help from a podiatrist.
• Adjust Training Schedule: If you feel your training schedule is too intense and straining on your body, be sure to adjust and incorporate more rest days to prevent overuse injury.
• Nutrition and Hydration: Fuel your body with nutrients to support bone and muscle health, like calcium and protein. Additionally, consistently hydrate when exercising to prevent fatigue or cramping.

Seek Help from a Podiatrist or Sports Medicine Professional

If you are experiencing foot pain or unsure about the signals your body is sending, schedule an appointment with your local podiatrist or sports medicine professional. Healthcare professionals can assess your condition, determine a proper diagnosis, and give you a customized treatment and rehabilitation plan. Even if you are not experiencing symptoms, we recommend you schedule an annual podiatry appointment for general checkups and to promote long-term foot and ankle health.

At Physicians Footcare, the Southeast’s premier podiatry practice, we specialize in all sports medicine-related foot and ankle pain. Whether you are a new or existing patient, our team is committed to helping you get back on your feet. With locations throughout South Carolina and Georgia, schedule an appointment with us today!

Bunions, a common foot ailment, can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily activities. Characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, bunions form when the bones in the front of the foot become misaligned, pushing the big toe towards the other toes. This condition not only alters the foot's structure but also leads to symptoms like redness, soreness, and swelling. In severe cases, bunions can result in chronic pain and restricted mobility.

Understanding the Causes and Symptoms of Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe and occurs when the bones at the front of your foot are moved out of place. This shift causes the big toe to encroach and bend towards the other toes, causing the base of your big toe to stick out. These changes in foot structure may cause the skin to turn red and sore.

Along with swelling and redness, you may also develop corns or calluses between your second and first toe, from the shift and rubbing of the toes. The other symptoms associated with bunions are ongoing and situational foot pain, as well as limited mobility in the big toe.

Podiatrists say individuals with the following preexisting conditions may be more susceptible to bunions: inherited foot type, foot stress and injuries, foot deformities, and arthritis. Though bunions rarely require medical treatment, you should consult with your podiatrist if you notice the following symptoms:

• Persistent big toe and foot pain
• A large bump on the side of your big toe
• Decreased toe and foot mobility
• Difficulty finding and wearing shoes due to the bunion.

Effective Strategies for Managing Bunion Pain 

Your podiatrist may suggest a few different treatment methods to manage your foot pain depending on the severity of the bunion. Nonsurgical options are most common and will help to relieve some of the pressure on the foot. These are a few of the treatment methods your podiatrist may prescribe:

• Change into a pair of comfortable shoes that provide plenty of space for your toes.
• Over-the-counter padding can be placed on the bunion and act as a buffer between the foot and your shoe to alleviate foot pain and discomfort.
• NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can also be used to reduce pain and swelling. Common NSAIDs include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.
• Padded shoe inserts help to evenly distribute pressure throughout the feet. This added cushion will help to reduce foot pain and prevent bunions from worsening.
• Ice can be especially helpful after a long day. Apply a cold compress or ice pack if your swelling, redness, or inflammation worsens at night. If you have circulation problems in your feet consult with your podiatrist before taking this route.

If you feel that these treatments have not helped to alleviate your foot pain, you should consult with your podiatrist about more extensive treatment. For more advanced bunions, surgery will help to relieve your foot pain. Surgery is not recommended for cosmetic reasons and should only be performed if the bunion is preventing you from performing daily activities. These procedures are often performed in one sitting and may involve:

• Removing the swollen tissue surrounding your big toe joint.
• Removing part of the big toe to straighten the bone.
• Straightening the forefoot to a normal position to realign the abnormal angle in the big toe joint. 
• Permanently fusing the bones of your affected joint. 

Proven Tips to Prevent Foot Pain Caused by Bunions

To manage and alleviate foot pain, it is recommended to avoid common bunion risk factors. Lifestyle changes related to footwear can be helpful. It is advisable to avoid wearing high-heeled, narrow, and tight shoes. If other family members suffer from bunions or if you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is best to steer clear of heeled and tight-fitting footwear.

Hereditary and arthritis conditions can increase the likelihood of developing bunions, and wearing these types of shoes will only worsen the condition. If you have a pre-existing condition, make an effort to wear shoes with a wide toe box. Meaning there is space between the side of your big toe and the edge of the shoe. 

Why You Should Visit Physicians Footcare for Bunion Pain Relief

If you notice swelling or redness on the side of your big toe, you should consult with your podiatrist. Bunions can cause foot pain, but they should not limit your mobility or turn daily activities into a painful burden. If you are experiencing this type of pain or discomfort, consult with a podiatrist. They will be able to provide you with conservative and surgical treatment options.

At Physicians Footcare, we believe that foot pain has no place in your daily life. If you or a loved one is experiencing bunion complications or is looking to learn more about foot health, schedule an appointment with us today. We have offices throughout Georgia and South Carolina and are here to help you get back to living life without the burden of foot pain.

As we age, the skin on our feet can become thinner, making us more susceptible to calluses, cracks, dryness, and loss of elasticity. This, combined with all the other factors associated with growing older, makes geriatric foot care even more important. To assist with the caregiving responsibility, the podiatrists at Physicians Footcare have compiled a list of proactive geriatric foot care strategies to help reduce foot pain, prevent injuries, and promote overall well-being.

Practice Good Foot Hygiene 

Maintaining an effective hygiene routine is crucial for geriatric foot care. To promote overall foot health, it's important to wash the feet and toes with warm, soapy water on a daily basis. When washing the feet, be mindful of the water temperature to ensure it's not too hot, as this can dry out the skin and potentially cause cuts and flakiness.

After washing, make sure to thoroughly dry the feet with a clean towel. It's important to pay special attention to drying between the toes, as trapped moisture in this area can lead to infections. 

Once feet are dry, apply a gentle foot moisturizer to help maintain skin elasticity and prevent the formation of corns and callouses. During this step, it is also recommended that you massage the feet. This will help to promote circulation and overall foot health.

Carefully Trim Toenails 

Once you have thoroughly washed and dried your feet, it's time to trim and file your toenails. The nails and surrounding skin will be soft at this point, which will make the trimming process less painful. 

Begin by trimming the nails straight across, avoid cutting them too short or at an angle, as this can cause foot pain and ingrown toenails. Once the nails are trimmed, use a nail file or emery board to clean up the edges and ensure there are no hangnails.

Careful, precise trimming can help prevent foot pain caused by ingrown toenails and toenail infections. 

Examine the Feet

As we age, the skin on our feet tends to weaken and become thinner, which increases the risk of cuts, cracks, dryness, corns, and fungal infections. To effectively care for the feet of elder  individuals, it's important to be proactive. This is why podiatrists recommend adding regular foot examinations to your geriatric foot care routine. 

During these examinations, it's essential to check the bottom and tops of the feet, the toes, and the areas in between the toes to ensure that there are no injuries or signs of infection. If the individual prefers to examine their feet on their own, podiatrists suggest using a handheld or standing mirror to improve visibility, especially if they have limited mobility. Regular examinations and attentive foot care can help prevent and address potential foot issues in older individuals.

Wear Supportive Footwear 

Supportive and well-fitting footwear can improve overall foot health and mobility in older individuals. They can prevent falls, improve balance, and reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, it can help reduce foot pain at the end of a long day. 

When shopping for supportive footwear, avoid shoes that slide or rub around the heel when walking, as they can cause blisters and sores on the feet. Also, ensure that the shoes are not too tight, as overly tight shoes can cause blisters, callouses, and corns, leading to general discomfort and skin problems.

Podiatrists also recommend wearing thick and shock-absorbing socks. These will help to reduce foot pain and add an extra layer of comfort. Remember to change socks throughout the day as too much moisture can lead to foot infections. 

Schedule Regular Appointments With Your Podiatrist

If your elderly loved one is experiencing foot pain and discomfort on a daily basis, and these geriatric foot care strategies have not provided any relief, it is time to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. If there is pain, tingling, numbness, or inflammation in the feet or ankles, it is important to see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Any foot pain or discomfort should be addressed immediately, as it could indicate conditions such as arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, or injuries like plantar fasciitis. Being proactive in these situations will help prevent complications in the future.

Physicians Footcare's expert team of podiatrists specializes in geriatric foot care and the complications associated with aging feet. If you have any questions, or concerns, or require treatment options, please schedule an appointment with our team. We have offices located throughout Georgia and South Carolina and are here to help you safely get back on your feet.

People with diabetes need to monitor various internal factors, and foot care is crucial among them. Neuropathy is a common symptom of diabetes, caused by nerve injury throughout the body. Those with diabetic neuropathy should follow a strict foot care routine to manage the condition and its symptoms. 

In this blog, the podiatrists at Physicians Footcare explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

The Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy 

Neuropathy is often linked to diabetic foot care, however, the condition's direct cause is unknown. Researchers believe blood sugar levels damage nerves throughout the body over time. As the nerves are damaged they lose their ability to send and receive signals to and from other parts of the body.  

This loss of feeling can damage mobility and function, making wound care more difficult. If you cannot feel your feet, you may have trouble telling if you have a scrape or cut, which can lead to infection in the numbed area.

Neuropathy Types and Their Symptoms 

There are four types of neuropathy. Understanding the signs of each and monitoring your symptoms is essential to diabetic foot care. Symptoms may develop gradually and you may not notice them until significant nerve damage has occurred. 

These are the four types of diabetic neuropathy and the symptoms to be aware of: 

• Peripheral neuropathy: This is the most common type of diabetic nerve damage. This condition first affects the feet and legs and may later affect the arms and hands. Symptoms may worsen at night and can include numbness, tingling, burning, sharp pains, muscle weakness, sensitivity to touch, and serious foot-related problems

• Autonomic neuropathy: This form of neuropathy affects the autonomic nervous system and can affect the eyes, digestive system, heart rate, and more: Symptoms may include hypoglycemia unawareness, orthostatic hypotension, nausea, bladder or bowel problems, changes in sweating, and difficulty swallowing. 

• Proximal neuropathy: This type of nerve damage is associated with the legs, hips, and glutes. Symptoms are commonly felt on one side of the body and include severe leg pain, weakening thigh muscles, difficulty standing, and abdominal pain. 

• Mononeuropathy: This refers to the damage of one specific nerve commonly in the leg, face, torso, or leg. This condition may lead to vision problems, face paralysis, finger numbness, weakness in the hand, foot pain, and leg pain. 

If you notice symptoms such as a cut on your foot that won't heal, tingling in the feet and hands, or recurrent dizziness, it's important to discuss this with your podiatrist as these could be signs of neuropathy.

Managing Foot Pain and Restoring Function 

Diabetic neuropathy can be managed with attentive foot care and preventative measures. Diabetics should follow all recommendations provided by the American Diabetes Association about blood sugar levels and daily diabetic care management. 

Develop a Diabetic Foot Care Routine

People with diabetes need to follow a foot care routine diligently. Neuropathy affects movement and feeling in the feet, and an intensive diabetic foot care routine is crucial in preventing infection and injury to the feet. Follow these podiatrist-recommended tips to up your foot care routine. 

• Make sure to check your feet every day for any cracks, cuts, or redness. Keeping an eye on the condition of your feet will help prevent infections. If you notice any abnormal skin or cuts on your feet, contact your podiatrist. They can treat the injury and provide guidance.
• Keep your feet clean and dry to avoid fungal infections. 
• Wear clean and dry socks without tight or irritating seams. This will help to keep your feet dry and fight infection. 
• Lastly, be sure to wear well-cushioned shoes daily. Your footwear should be breathable and allow your toes to move. For diabetic shoe recommendations, reach out to your podiatrist, they will be able to give you a list of comfortable options. 

To get guidance on creating a diabetic foot care routine, consult with a local podiatrist. They can provide advice, products, and wound care techniques tailored to your condition and symptoms.

Self-Care Tips 

Diabetics can also implement the following self-care measures into their daily routine to relieve foot pain and restore function: 

• Diabetics with high blood pressure are at greater risk for diabetic neuropathy. To combat this, keep your blood pressure in the range your doctor recommends. 

• High blood sugar also causes diabetic neuropathy. To keep these levels low, incorporate moderate exercise into your daily routine. 
• Making healthy food choices will help you maintain a healthy weight. 
• Tobacco in all forms causes circulation problems in the feet. If you use tobacco products, talk to your doctor about ways to quit. 

Podiatrist’s Diabetic Foot Care Tips

Diabetes can affect various parts of the body, including the feet, legs, arms, and hands. Diabetic neuropathy can cause several symptoms, but a good diabetic foot care routine can help reduce foot pain and restore function in the feet. 

For more detailed guidance and information, please contact our team of expert podiatrists at Physicians Footcare. With offices throughout Georgia and South Carolina, we are here to provide services from diabetic foot care to foot and ankle surgery. Don't let foot pain limit your life – schedule an appointment with us today.