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The Danger of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Tuesday, 29 March 2022

Some diabetic patients, roughly 15 percent, develop what is known as foot ulcers. The main cause is that their feet become numb, and they may not notice sores or open wounds on the bottom of their feet. When these sores fail to heal properly or become infected, they can lead to severe consequences, including amputation. Risk factors include smoking, insulin dependence, weight problems, ill-fitting footwear, high cholesterol and poor hygiene. Symptoms of diabetic foot ulcers are discoloration of toes and toenails, pain and redness, blisters, sores, calluses, pus or fluid discharge, and foul odor emanating from the feet. If diabetic foot ulcers have developed on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible for an examination and ongoing treatment plan.

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 Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

What Is Sesamoiditis and What Does It Have to Do With My Feet?

Tuesday, 22 March 2022

Sesamoiditis is when the tendons attached to the sesamoids (bones connected by tendons to muscles) become inflamed. While the kneecap is the biggest sesamoid in the body, there are smaller sesamoids near the big toe on the bottom of the foot. Sesamoiditis is the term most often used to describe this condition in reference to the foot, and tendonitis is more likely to be used when related to the kneecap. Sesamoiditis can develop from overuse or trauma of the tendons connected to small bones in the front of the foot. Athletes, dancers, and those who wear high heels or improperly fitting shoes are more often plagued by this disorder. Pain usually occurs slowly under the ball of the foot, and swelling or bruising may be noticed. The big toe may become immobile, and there can be a popping sensation when walking. It is a good idea to consult a podiatrist, who can examine and diagnose the affected foot using an X-ray, a bone scan, an ultrasound, or an MRI. While orthotics and anti-inflammatory medications may be suggested, sesamoiditis can often heal with rest and be prevented with lifestyle changes. Surgery is a last resort.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

Sudden increase in activity
Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Friday, 18 March 2022

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

Toe Squats and the Plantar Fascia

Tuesday, 15 March 2022

An effective stretch that benefits the bottom of the foot is known as a toe squat. It is known to strengthen the plantar fascia, which is the portion of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes and is instrumental in performing daily activities that include walking and running. This stretch is performed by keeping your feet together as you are sitting on your heels. As the toes are tucked under, it is important to remain on the balls of the feet and avoid the tips of the toes. Breathing with the posture may intensify the stretch, as it is being held for two to three minutes. People who practice this stretch find it is beneficial to slowly release the position, and this can help to protect the bottom of the foot. If you would like to learn more about how to practice effective foot stretches, please speak with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Richfield and Ephraim, Utah . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Running and the Cuboid Bone

Tuesday, 08 March 2022

The cuboid is a small, wedge-shaped bone located along the outside of the midfoot. This bone helps keep the foot stable and allows it to move properly. Runners sometimes find themselves with cuboid injuries due to the repetitive stress placed on the feet as they hit the pavement. When the cuboid bone is injured, it can make it extremely painful to run, walk, or even stand on the affected foot. The bone may become misaligned, causing a sharp pain in the foot, swelling, redness, tenderness, and weakness. Runners should rest the injured foot and refrain from running or other high impact exercise for a period of time to allow the injury to heal fully. If you are suffering from foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Blake Zobell from Utah. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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