November 2024

A diabetic foot ulcer is an open wound or sore that develops on the feet of individuals with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to reduced sensation and poor circulation, which makes it harder for wounds to heal. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes drainage or foul odor. Proper treatment is essential to prevent complications, such as infections or even amputation. Early care includes cleaning the ulcer, applying topical medications, and wearing special footwear to reduce pressure. In more severe cases, debridement, which is the removal of dead tissue, or surgery, may be necessary. A podiatrist plays a critical role in treating diabetic foot ulcers by providing wound care, recommending custom footwear, and monitoring the healing process. If you have diabetes and notice any foot sores or ulcers, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to prevent serious complications.

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 and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is caused by fungi that invade the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and even crumbling of the nail. Factors contributing to this infection include warm, moist environments, improper foot hygiene, and underlying health issues like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Symptoms often include yellow or brown discoloration, a foul odor, and discomfort in severe cases. Treatment options range from topical antifungal medications to oral prescriptions and, in persistent cases, laser therapy or nail removal. A podiatrist specializes in foot health and can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, recommend effective treatments, and provide advice on preventing future infections. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist. Early intervention can help restore your nail health and prevent complications, allowing you to enjoy healthy, beautiful feet again.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. This condition often leads to sharp heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Runners are especially susceptible to plantar fasciitis due to the repetitive stress placed on the feet during training. Common causes include overuse, inadequate footwear, and changes in running surfaces. Risk factors also encompass high body weight, tight calf muscles, and abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. Plantar fasciitis can be painful and may cause difficulty completing daily activities. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment methods.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Blake Zobell  from Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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 and ankle needs.

A swollen toe can be a concerning symptom that may arise from various underlying causes. It often occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues, leading to inflammation. One common cause is an injury, such as a fracture or sprain, which can result in swelling as the body responds to trauma. Infections, such as cellulitis or ingrown toenails, can also lead to localized swelling accompanied by redness and pain. Additionally, conditions like gout, characterized by the buildup of uric acid crystals, can cause significant swelling and pain in the big toe. Other factors, such as arthritis, venous insufficiency, or allergic reactions, may contribute to toe swelling as well. If your toe has become swollen and painful, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Blake Zobell of Utah. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.